Aposturisoma myriodon
Overview
Farlowella myriodon is a species of freshwater ray-finned fish belonging to the family Loricariidae, the suckermouth armored catfishes, and the subfamily Loricariinae, the mailed catfishes. It was initially described in the only species in the genus Aposturisoma. This genus name derives from Greek apo- meaning "outside", German sturio meaning "sturgeon" and Greek soma meaning "body"; the whole referring to its outwardly similar appearance to a sturgeon.
A 2021 study revealed that this species was embedded within Farlowella and therefore the genus was synonymised.
Aposturisoma myriodon faces severe threats from dam construction and water diversions along the Magdalena River system in Colombia, which fragment its habitat and alter critical flow patterns. Mining activities and agricultural runoff introduce heavy metals and sediments that degrade water quality in the shallow, rocky areas where this catfish feeds. The species' extremely restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes and pollution events.
Habitat
This armored catfish inhabits shallow, fast-flowing rocky areas of the Magdalena River basin in Colombia, typically found in clear waters with strong currents and rocky substrates. It prefers well-oxygenated sections of tributaries where it can graze on algae and organic matter attached to rocks.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in LORICARIIDAE
Threatened in Peru
Frequently asked questions
Why is Aposturisoma myriodon classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Aposturisoma myriodon live?
What are the main threats to Aposturisoma myriodon?
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