Suckermouth Catfish: Invasive Alien Fish, Loricariidae & Threat to Indian Aquatic Ecosystems

UPSC Reference: Environment

Why in News?

The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) has undertaken efforts to remove invasive suckermouth catfish from Ujani Reservoir.

Key Facts

  • Family: Loricariidae

  • Commonly associated scientific name: Hypostomus plecostomus

  • Origin: South America

  • Introduced into India largely through the aquarium trade.

  • Also known as suckermouth catfish or, in some descriptions, "sailfin"/"pleco" types.

  • Adaptations include strong resilience and ability to survive low-oxygen conditions.

Ecological Concerns

It may:

  • Compete with native fish

  • Consume fish eggs

  • Burrow into riverbanks

  • Damage aquatic habitats

  • Alter local food webs

Key Pointer

Suckermouth catfish → Loricariidae → South America → Aquarium trade → Invasive species