Abstract
A re‐evaluation of Dekeyseria brachyura and D. pulchra found them to be junior synonyms of D. picta , the oldest species among these congeners, based on continuous intraspecific variation in morphometrics and colour pattern. Examination of material deposited at Brazilian and Venezuelan collections, including the original type specimens of Ancistrus brachyurus and A. pictus , plus samples recently collected in the Rio Negro, Amazonas, Brazil, allowed re‐evaluation of the taxonomic status of D. picta and provides additional information on its distribution, habitats and reproductive strategies.