Fin's Fish Guide
The Armored catfish (Hypostomus watwata) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Northern South America; estuaries and littoral areas, tolerates brackish water.
Description
The estuarine suckermouth catfish is a South American armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae from the north of the continent. The species grows to about 45 cm and has an elongate body armoured with rows of bony plates and a downward-facing suckermouth. Notably it is a permanent resident of estuaries and littoral areas and tolerates brackish water well; many related armoured catfishes live strictly in fresh water. With its rasping suckermouth it scrapes algae, growth and detritus from stones, wood and the bottom. The species is of local fishery importance and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Armored catfish?
The Armored catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Armoured catfish that, unlike many of its relatives, tolerates brackish estuarine water.
Where does the Armored catfish live?
The Armored catfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern South America; estuaries and littoral areas, tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Armored catfish get?
The Armored catfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Armored catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Armored catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Armored catfish edible?
The Armored catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Armored catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Armored catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hypostomus
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Armored catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Armored catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.