How to Identify Bagre Chico

To identify Bagre Chico (Trichomycterus areolatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically dark brown to olive-brown, often with irregular darker blotches or saddles. Ventral surface lighter, ranging from cream to pale yellow. Fins are generally translucent with some darker pigmentation. Coloration provides excellent camouflage against rocky substrates.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Small, subterminal mouth with fleshy lips and short barbels., Three pairs of barbels: one nasal, one maxillary, and one rictal., Absence of an adipose fin., Small, embedded scales (or scaleless, depending on interpretation of dermal ossifications)., Opercular patch of odontodes (small, spine-like structures) used for defense and anchoring.

Dorsal fin

Single, short-based dorsal fin positioned posteriorly, typically originating behind the pelvic fin insertion. Contains 7-9 soft rays.

Tail fin

Caudal fin truncate to slightly emarginate, with 10-12 principal rays.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins broad and rounded, with 7-9 rays. Possess a strong, unbranched ray that can be locked into position.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins small, with 5 rays, originating anterior to the dorsal fin. Anal fin short-based, with 6-8 soft rays, positioned posterior to the dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Size

   Elongated, cylindrical body, reaching a maximum standard length of about 15 cm, though typically smaller (5-10 cm).

2. 2

   Mouth and Barbels

   Small, subterminal mouth with three pairs of short barbels (nasal, maxillary, rictal).

3. 3

   Fin Placement

   Dorsal fin positioned well posterior to the pelvic fins. Absence of an adipose fin.

4. 4

   Opercular Odontodes

   Presence of a patch of small, sharp spines (odontodes) on the operculum (gill cover), which can be erected for defense. This is a key family characteristic.

5. 5

   Coloration

   Cryptic brown to olive-brown coloration with darker blotches, blending with rocky substrates.

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