Shorthead Lampreys [Mordacia]

Description

Mordacia is a genus within the family Mordaciidae, known as Shorthead Lampreys. This genus comprises species that are primarily found in the Southern Hemisphere, with their distribution spanning coastal waters and freshwater systems in parts of South America and Australia. Shorthead lampreys are smaller than their Geotria counterparts, typically reaching lengths of about 30 to 40 cm. They exhibit a more limited anadromous behavior, with some populations known to complete their entire life cycle in freshwater. Mordacia species have a characteristic short and broad head, with a mouth that is less developed for sucking compared to Geotria. Their lifecycle also includes a larval phase spent in freshwater environments before maturing into adulthood. Despite their parasitic phase being less pronounced than in Geotria, they play a significant ecological role in their native habitats.

Species

Taxonomy