Systematics and geographical distribution of the genus Parotocinclus Eigenamnn & Eigenamnn, 1889 (Ostariophysi, Loricariidae)

Abstract

Notes are given on the systematics, geographical distribution and ecology of the genus Parotocinclus. The species are redescribed and five new species (cristatus, amazonensis, jimi, cearensis and minutus) are described. Two well defined groups of species are recogyiized and an Amazonian origin for the genus is postulated, to explain the distribution along a long but narrow belt in eastern South America.