Fin's Fish Guide
The African whiptailed catfish (Phractura ansorgii) is a freshwater fish of the family Amphiliidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The African whiptailed catfish is a small, slender catfish (Amphiliidae) from fresh water of West Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a very elongate, tapering body with rows of bony platelets and barbels. As a bottom-dweller it lives in clear, flowing streams and rivers among sand, gravel and roots and searches for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African whiptailed catfish?
The African whiptailed catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the African whiptailed catfish live?
The African whiptailed catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Nigeria, Togo
How big does the African whiptailed catfish get?
The African whiptailed catfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the African whiptailed catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the African whiptailed catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Phractura
More from the family Amphiliidae
Want the complete picture on the African whiptailed catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African whiptailed catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.