How to Identify Gotyla Garra

To identify Gotyla Garra (Garra gotyla), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically olive-brown to grey, fading to a lighter, yellowish-white on the ventral side. Irregular dark blotches or bands may be present along the flanks, providing camouflage. Fins are generally translucent or slightly dusky.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Prominent mental adhesive disc on the chin, used for attachment to substrates., A pair of rostral barbels and a pair of maxillary barbels., Snout often features a prominent proboscis or rostral flap, varying in development among subspecies and populations., Lateral line complete, running along the mid-flank.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 3-4 unbranched and 7-8 branched rays. Originates slightly anterior to the pelvic fin origin.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin with rounded lobes.

Pectoral fin

Large and horizontally oriented, adapted for gripping surfaces in strong currents. Typically with 1 unbranched and 13-16 branched rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are also horizontally oriented and contribute to the adhesive function, often with a thickened pad at the base.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mental Adhesive Disc

   The most distinguishing feature is the prominent, circular or oval adhesive disc on the ventral side of the head, posterior to the mouth. This disc is used to cling to rocks.

2. 2

   Barbels

   Presence of two pairs of barbels: one rostral pair and one maxillary pair. The length and development of these barbels can vary.

3. 3

   Snout Morphology

   Observe the snout, which often has a distinct proboscis or rostral flap. The shape and size of this structure can be important for subspecies identification.

4. 4

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Elongated, somewhat flattened ventral profile, and a drab, cryptic coloration (olive-brown to grey) with potential irregular dark markings.

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