Identity and locality
Lasiancistrus guacharote (Valenciennes, 1840)
Lake Maracaibo drainage and northwestern Venezuela
Diagnostic evidence and naming
The 2005 revision retained L. guacharote and treated maracaiboensis and mystacinus as synonyms; its broader trans-Andean classification was revised in 2023. A few abdominal platelets near pectoral base differ from fully naked or broadly plated congeners. The 2023 revision retains L. guacharote in the Lake Maracaibo basin and recognizes four other trans-Andean species in separate drainages. Historical 2005 synonym decisions must be dated.
Breeding and genetics limitations
Avoid presenting old names as selectively bred independent species or assuming founder fish by appearance.
Original references
Links are research leads; they do not certify every statement. Check original taxonomy and date.
Public Discord research discussion
Follow the original forum topic. It is a discussion record, not independent scientific verification.