Fin's Fish Guide
The Banjo (Aspredo aspredo) is a brackish-water fish of the family Aspredinidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Northeast coast of South America; sandy and muddy bottoms of brackish coastal waters and estuaries.
Description
The banjo catfish is a South American catfish of the banjo catfish family (Aspredinidae) from the north-eastern coast of South America. The species grows to about 38 cm and has a strongly flattened front and a long, thin tail, together shaped like a banjo, with a rough, tubercle-studded skin. It lives on sand and mud bottoms of brackish coastal waters and estuaries. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small invertebrates, worms and detritus. Notable is its brood care: the female carries the fertilised eggs attached to her belly. The fin spines can prick, so handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banjo?
The Banjo has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Banjo-shaped body with rough skin; the female carries the eggs attached to her belly.
Where does the Banjo live?
The Banjo lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast coast of South America; sandy and muddy bottoms of brackish coastal waters and estuaries.
How big does the Banjo get?
The Banjo grows to a maximum of about 38 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Banjo dangerous to humans?
No, the Banjo is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Banjo edible?
The Banjo is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Banjo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banjo is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Aspredinidae
Want the complete picture on the Banjo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banjo is one of 12,519 species in the app.