Candiru (fish)

Candiru (Vandellia cirrhosa), also known as canero, toothpick fish, or vampire fish, is a species of parasitic freshwater catfish in the family Trichomycteridae native to the Amazon Basin where it is found in the countries of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

Etymology

The name "Candiru" is derived from the Tupi language, in which it means "toothpick fish". The scientific name Vandellia cirrhosa is derived from the Italian naturalist Luigi Vandel who first described the species, and the Latin cirrhosa meaning "tendril-like", referring to the fish's slender shape.

Description

Candiru are small, scaleless fish with a slender, eel-like body. They are translucent and difficult to spot in the water. The fish are known for their catfish-like whiskers (or barbels) and sharp teeth. They can grow up to 40 cm (16 in) in length and 2.5 cm (1 in) in width.

Behavior

Candiru are parasitic fish. They feed by attaching themselves to the gills of larger fish and feeding on their host's blood. They are attracted to the scent of urine and have been known to enter the urethra of humans who urinate in the water, causing severe pain and potentially serious complications.

Treatment

If a Candiru enters a human urethra, immediate medical attention is required. Treatment typically involves the surgical removal of the fish. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to prevent infection.

Related Species

Candiru are part of the Trichomycteridae family, which includes over 200 species of parasitic catfish. Other notable species in this family include the pygidiid and glanapterygin catfish.

See Also

• Amazon River
• Parasitic catfish
• Trichomycteridae

References

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