Feeding Biology of the Glyptosternine Catfish <i>Parachiloglanis hodgarti</i> (Siluriformes: Sisoridae) in Nepal

Little is known about the feeding biology of the sisorid catfish Parachiloglanis hodgarti, a species native to fast-flowing streams across Nepal, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and China. In this study, we investigated the feeding anatomy, diet composition, trophic level, and food preferences of 60 specimens collected from three Nepalese streams to elucidate its trophic ecology. Stomach content analysis revealed the presence of insect larvae from the orders Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera, and Diptera, with the genera Baetis, Hydropsyche, and Neoperla showing the highest Index of Relative Importance (IRI). Morphological characteristics suggest that P. hodgarti relies more on chemosensation (e.g., taste) than vision for prey detection. A low caudal fin aspect ratio (1.58) indicates high maneuverability, likely an adaptation for capturing evasive prey. Additionally, an intestinal coefficient of 0.86, a trophic level of 3.32, and a niche breadth of 0.56 classify P. hodgarti as an insectivore with an intermediate level of dietary specialization.