Ixinandria Explained

Ixinandria steinbachi is the only species in the genus Ixinandria of catfish (order Siluriformes) of the family Loricariidae.[1]

Taxonomy

Ixinandria is part of the Rineloricaria group of the Loricariini tribe within the subfamily Loricariinae. The phylogenetic position of Ixinandria within the tribe Loricariini remains uncertain. It has been suggested that Ixinandria could be synonym of Rineloricaria.

Previously there were two species in this genus, but it was found that I. montebelloi was a synonym of I. steinbachi.[1]

Distribution

The distribution of Ixinandria includes rivers of the Atlantic slope of the Andes in Bolivia and Argentina. I. steinbachi occurs in the Salado River basin. I. steinbachi occurs in Salta Province in mountainous areas at high altitudes ranging from around 1000 - 2900 metres (3300 - 9500 ft) above sea level.[2]

Appearance and anatomy

Sexual dimorphism includes hypertrophied odontodes around the head margin and on the pectoral fin spines of mature males.[2] These fish reach a length of 11.3cm (04.4inches) SL.

Habitat ecology

Ixinandria steinbachi is a rheophilic species that lives in fast flowing and very oxygenated waters. Its color pattern reflects mimicry with stoned bottoms.[2] Fertilized eggs have been found on the hidden surface of a stone, suggesting that I. steinbachi could be a cavity spawner.[2]

Notes and References

  1. Neotropical Ichthyology. 6. 3. 367–378. 2008. Taxonomy of Ixinandria Isbrücker & Nijssen (Loricariidae: Loricariinae) based on morphological and molecular data. Mónica S.. Rodriguez. Cramer, Christian A. . Bonatto, Sandro L. . Reis, Roberto E. . 10.1590/s1679-62252008000300010. free.
  2. The genera of the Neotropical armored catfish subfamily Loricariinae (Siluriformes: Loricariidae): a practical key and synopsis. Raphael. Covain. Fisch-Muller, Sonia. Zootaxa. 1462. 1–40. 2007. 10.11646/zootaxa.1462.1.1.