Two New Species of the Catfish Genus Tatia (Siluriformes: Auchenipteridae) from the Guiana Shield and a Reevaluation of the Limits of the Genus
Analysis of samples of the auchenipterid catfish genus Tatia collected during a recent ichthyological survey in the Cuyuni River basin in Guyana revealed them to be an undescribed species. Comparative studies associated with the evaluation of that new species demonstrated that a sample of the genus from a right bank tributary of the Río Orinoco in Venezuela, also on the Guiana Shield, represents a second species unknown to science. The placement of Tatia musaica, previously considered incertae sedis in the Centromochlinae, is evaluated and the species is reassigned to Tatia.
Tatia carolae, new species, holotype, USNM (CSBD) 401514, 37.2 mm SL, Guyana, Cuyuni River, sand island in middle of river just downstream from Kurutuku (approximately 6°54′N, 60°18′W); dorsal, lateral, and ventral views.
Tatia marthae, new species, holotype, ANSP 146201, 23.1 mm SL, Venezuela, Bolivar, Caño Cuchima of Río Cusimi, approximately 20 mi upstream from junction of Río Caura and Río Erebato near Entre Ríos (approximately 5°45′N, 64°33′W); dorsal, lateral, and ventral views.
Contributor Notes
Associate Editor: R. E. Reis.