Pterosturisoma microps

Description

Pterosturisoma microps is the only species of the monotypic genus Pterosturisoma, a genus of the family Loricariidae of catfish (order Siluriformes). This species is endemic to Peru where it is found in the upper Amazon basin. P. microps is a rheophile, which means it likes fast-moving water. P. microps reaches a length of 16.1 centimetres (6.3 in) SL. Pterosturisoma appears morphologically very similar to Lamontichthys; however, Pterosturisoma has 6 pectoral fin rays while Lamontichthys has 7. These two genera share features with Sturisoma such as similar body depth at the dorsal fin origin, the presence of filamentous extensions on caudal fin spines, and complete abdominal plate cover that extends to the lower lip margin. The sexes of P. microps can be distinguished by the width of a naked trapezoidal area framed by four bony plates in the genital region; this area appeared broader in females, and longer and narrower in males.