Fin's Fish Guide
The Amphilius pulcher is a freshwater fish of the family Amphiliidae that grows up to 8 cm.
West-Central Africa, in the Ogowe, Nyanga and Kouilou basins of Gabon and the Republic of the Congo.
Description
Amphilius pulcher is a small African catfish of the family Amphiliidae from the coastal rivers of Gabon and the Republic of Congo (Ogowe, Nyanga, Kouilou). The species reaches about 8 cm and has a flattened, brown mottled body with barbels around the mouth. It is adapted to life in fast-flowing, rocky mountain streams, where it clings to the bottom against the current. The diet consists of insect larvae and small bottom invertebrates. Amphiliidae lack the strong spines of many other catfishes. Owing to its small size and remote habitat the species is little studied.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Amphilius pulcher?
The Amphilius pulcher has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Flattened body adapted to fast-flowing mountain streams; bottom-dweller with barbels.
Where does the Amphilius pulcher live?
The Amphilius pulcher lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West-Central Africa, in the Ogowe, Nyanga and Kouilou basins of Gabon and the Republic of the Congo.
How big does the Amphilius pulcher get?
The Amphilius pulcher grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Amphilius pulcher dangerous to humans?
No, the Amphilius pulcher is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Amphilius pulcher edible?
The Amphilius pulcher is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Amphilius
More from the family Amphiliidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Amphilius pulcher is one of 12,519 species in the app.