Ossancora, New Genus of Thorny Catfish (Teleostei: Siluriformes: Doradidae) with Description of One New Species

Abstract

ABSTRACT. Ossancora, new genus, is diagnosed within Doradidae by having the unique combination of posterior coracoid process approximately as long as posterior cleithral process in adults, posterior cranial fontanel occluded, long maxillary barbel with smooth elongate fimbriae, and teeth present on dentary and premaxilla. A similarly long posterior coracoid process is found in only one other doradid species, Trachydoras paraguayensis, which is distinguished, as are its congeners, from Ossancora by having a small posterior cranial fontanel retained in adults, a relatively short maxillary barbel with stout fimbriae, and edentulous jaws. Three nominal species are recognized as valid and redescribed in Ossancora: Doras punctatus Kner 1853, in both the Amazonas and Parana-Paraguay basins, Oxydoras eigenmanni Boulenger 1895, in the Paraguay basin, and Doras fimbriatus Kner 1855 in the Amazonas basin. The younger name Doras fimbriatus Kner 1855 is considered valid as a nomen protectum according to Article 23.9 o...