Fin's Fish Guide
The Barbel whiptail catfish (Dentectus barbarmatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The barbel whiptail catfish is a slender armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from the Orinoco basin in Venezuela in South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an elongate, bony-plated, sandy body tapering into a thin, whip-like tail, an inferior sucker mouth and conspicuous barbel-like outgrowths on the snout. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried in sand and rasps algae, biofilm and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barbel whiptail catfish?
The Barbel whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Barbel whiptail catfish live?
The Barbel whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Venezuela
How big does the Barbel whiptail catfish get?
The Barbel whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Barbel whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Barbel whiptail 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Barbel whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barbel whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.