Author: (Linnaeus, 1766)
FBname: Manduba
Remark: Redescribed in Walsh (pers comm., and  1990) as <i>Ageneiosus brevifilis</i> Valenciennes.
Comments: Prefers rivers in overgrown backwaters where the current is not too strong. Reported to be nocturnal. Feeds on fish and crustaceans. The flesh is esteemed for its very fine flavor. Frequently captured with nets, with males difficult to release from the nets because of its strong dorsal spine that is bordered with denticles (Ref. 27188).  During reproduction, the mandibular barbels and dorsal spine of the male change, and a copulatory organ appears at the anterior level of the anal fin.  Fertilization is internal, the female being capable of keeping the spermatozoids inserted in the epithelium of her genital tract (Ref. 35381).