Fin's Fish Guide
The Bahia thorny catfish (Kalyptodoras bahiensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Doradidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Bahia thorny catfish is a thorny catfish (Doradidae) from rivers of eastern Brazil in South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a sturdy, grey-brown body with a row of bony, thorned plates along the flank and long barbels; by vibrating its swim bladder it makes a grunting sound. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day under wood and banks and searches at night for snails, insect larvae and detritus. The stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bahia thorny catfish?
The Bahia thorny catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Bahia thorny catfish live?
The Bahia thorny catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil
How big does the Bahia thorny catfish get?
The Bahia thorny catfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Bahia thorny catfish dangerous to humans?
The Bahia thorny catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp head or fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Doradidae
Want the complete picture on the Bahia thorny catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bahia thorny catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.