Trichomycterus albinotatus

<em>Trichomycterus albinotatus</em> is a small freshwater catfish belonging to the family Trichomycteridae, commonly known as pencil catfishes or parasitic catfishes, though most species in the family are not parasitic. Members of this diverse Neotropical family typically inhabit rivers, streams, and small watercourses across South America, often found in rocky or sandy substrates where they conceal themselves among stones and debris. This species reaches a maximum recorded length of approximately 4.63 cm. Details of habitat and range for this species remain limited in the ichthyological literature, which is common for many trichomycterids given the family's high species richness and the complexity of their taxonomy. Trichomycterids are well adapted to benthic life, possessing a somewhat cylindrical body form and lacking a swim bladder in some species, allowing them to remain on the substrate without effort. They generally feed on small invertebrates, algae, and organic detritus. While not widely kept in the aquarium trade, some species within the family are occasionally maintained by specialist hobbyists in biotope setups replicating Andean or lowland stream environments. Stable water quality, gentle flow, and hiding spots among rocks or driftwood are appropriate for such setups. Its conservation status is currently listed as Not Evaluated.