Lajitellessas

Lajitellessas are a group of freshwater fish in the genus Lajitellessa, family Cyprinidae, endemic to the Lajita River Basin and its tributaries in the eastern Serapine Archipelago. The name Lajitellessa reflects the regional river name and regional linguistic usage, and the plural form Lajitellessas denotes the species that share key morphological traits. The genus was described in the late 20th century by biologists Elena Rivera and Kaito Cho.

Distribution and habitat: Lajitellessas inhabit slow-moving streams, oxbow lakes, and vegetation-rich marshes at elevations from about 50 to 600 meters. They prefer turbid water with moderate aquatic vegetation and are commonly found in schools near submerged roots and fallen logs.

Description and ecology: They are small to medium-sized fish, typically 5–12 cm in length. They have slender, laterally compressed bodies with olive to silvery coloration and a blue-tinged dorsal fin. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of aquatic invertebrates, detritus, and algae. They exhibit crepuscular activity, feeding mainly at dawn and dusk.

Reproduction: Spawning occurs in spring as water temperatures rise. Eggs are adhesive and laid among aquatic vegetation. Most species show limited parental care, with fry becoming independent within a few weeks.

Conservation: Lajitellessas face pressures from habitat alteration due to dam construction, water extraction, and pollution. Some species are listed as near threatened on regional red lists. Conservation efforts emphasize protecting stream corridors, maintaining water quality, and monitoring population trends.