Phylogenetic placement and description of a new species of Leptorhamdia (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae) from the Amazon basin

Abstract

Brachyglaniini is a recently described tribe of Heptapterinae, composed of four genera: Brachyglanis, Gladioglanis, Leptorhamdia, and Myoglanis. Expeditions to the Aripuanã and Tapajós River basins revealed an undescribed species of Brachyglaniini, characterized by a conspicuous light-colored band posterior to the head. Our phylogenetic results provide strong evidence that this new Brachyglaniini species belongs to the genus Leptorhamdia and is closely related to L. marmorata and L. aspredinoides. In addition to the color pattern, the new species can be distinguished from its congeners by having 19-22 anal-fin rays and 47 vertebrae.