Metadata

Pterocryptis undescribed species

[Clarke 2003]

ORDERSUB-ORDERFAMILY
SiluriformesSiluroideiSiluridae

Note

A troglomorphic species in the genus Pterocryptis was collected by Arthur Clarke (pers. comm.) in Guangxi Province, China. It was tentatively identified as P. gilberti but it seems most unlikely that this is a correct identification. The following account refers only to the Chinese hypogean fishes which will probably be a new species.

Synonyms

None.

Country

China

Types

The cave form has not been studied and there are no “types” for it.

Distribution

Known only from one site: Yanliu Suidao, 40km south of Lingyun, western Guangxi Province, China (24o 12’N, 106o 38’E).

Habitat

The tunnels in which the fishes were seen are a mined extension to a natural cave carrying water for a hydro-electric scheme. Stygobitic crabs were also observed. This cave carries water from another cave nearby, Yanliu Dong.

Systematics

No published details.

Conservation Status

TLO [NE]

Currently known from one locality only and therefore VU D2.

Museum Holdings

None known.

Key References

Clarke, A Personal Communication 2003 Troglomorphic Pterocryptis from China