Como identificar Bagre-zebra

Para identificar Bagre-zebra (Brachyplatystoma juruense), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

torpedo

Coloração

Juveniles exhibit striking dark vertical bands (typically 7-9) on a silvery-white to yellowish background, resembling a zebra pattern. These bands become less distinct and may fade to a mottled or uniform greyish-brown as the fish matures. The ventral surface is typically lighter. Fins are often dusky or translucent.

Tipo de escama

none

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Long, slender body, becoming more robust with age., Large, broad, and somewhat flattened head., Three pairs of barbels: one maxillary pair extending well past the pectoral fins, and two mental pairs that are shorter., Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes., Adipose fin present and relatively large., Small, widely spaced eyes located dorsally on the head.

Nadadeira dorsal

Single dorsal fin with a strong, serrated spine and 6-7 soft rays. The spine can be locked upright.

Nadadeira caudal

Deeply forked, homocercal caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Nadadeira peitoral

Pectoral fins are relatively large and possess a strong, serrated spine.

Nadadeiras características

Pelvic fins are small. Adipose fin is well-developed and positioned posteriorly.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the distinctive dark vertical bands on a lighter body, especially in younger specimens. These bands are the primary identifier for 'zebra' in its common name.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Size

   Its elongated, torpedo-shaped body and potential for very large size (up to 1.5 meters TL) are key indicators.

3. 3

   Barbels

   The very long maxillary barbels extending beyond the pectoral fins are characteristic of Brachyplatystoma species, and particularly prominent in B. juruense.

4. 4

   Caudal Fin

   The deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes is a consistent feature across all life stages.

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