Identity and locality
Pseudolithoxus stearleyi (Lujan & Armbruster, 2011)
Soromoni Creek, upper Orinoco River, Amazonas State, Venezuela
Diagnostic evidence and naming
Described alongside the then-named Micracanthicus vandragti in 2011. Green coloration, tiny yellow-gold head spots, thin body bars and unusual naked snout plate pattern differentiate this rare taxon. Current Eschmeyer taxonomic status recognizes Pseudolithoxus stearleyi (Lujan & Armbruster, 2011), originally described as Soromonichthys stearleyi from Soromoni Creek near the upper Orinoco. The Armbruster and Lujan 2024 Hypostominae classification (volume released online in 2025) explains molecular placement within Pseudolithoxus. This is not hybridization or captive lineage evidence.
Breeding and genetics limitations
Limited museum occurrence is not proof a fish sold with same markings is this species or a captive line.
Original references
Links are research leads; they do not certify every statement. Check original taxonomy and date.
Public Discord research discussion
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