On the anatomy and function of the cephalic structures associated with the feeding mechanisms in the genus Chrysichthys (Teleostei : Siluriformes)

We studied, in fine detail, the functional morphology of the cephalic structures related to the feeding mechanisms movements of the mouth, suspensorium, opercular series, hyoid arch, maxillary barbels and mandibular barbels - in three species of Chrysichthys. For comparison, a large number of other catfish genera were also studied. Our observations and comparisons, in association with the data available in the literature, suggest that the mechanical performance of the cephalic feeding structures in Chrysichthys probably represents the typical pattern of a catfish.