Portuguese arched-mouth nase
(Iberochondrostoma lusitanicum)
Image source: Jo's Animal Database
Europe: Portugal in Sado, Lizandro, Samarra, Colares and Ossos drainages, south bank tributaries of Tagus.
Max length: 15 cm TL
Dorsal spines (total): 3; Dorsal soft rays (total): 6-8; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 6 - 8. Diagnosis: Lateral line scales (43)45-49(51); above lateral line (9.5)10-11(10.5); right pharyngeal teeth 5-6 (Ref. 55426).
Differs from its congeners by having eye diameter greater than snout length, usually 43-47 + 2-3 scales on lateral line and 3½-5 scale rows between lateral line and pelvic origin.
Found in coastal rivers and terminal segments of main rivers. Occurs in middle and lower reaches of streams, with slow current and underwater vegetation. Forms large spawning aggregations. Threatened due to habitat destruction.
Forms large spawning aggregations. A female spawns with one or a few males, which press the female against the substratum and eggs are released. These movements attract other individuals to start spawning. The aggregations disperse after about 20-60 seconds and many form again several times. Deposits adhesive eggs.
