Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye catfish (Pimelodella megalops) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The bigeye catfish is a slender catfish (Heptapteridae) from northern South America. The species has an elongate, silvery-grey body with conspicuously large eyes, to which the name refers, very long barbels and an adipose fin. It is a rather rare species living over sandy bottoms in calm parts of large inland rivers; it is often caught in groups. As a nocturnal omnivore it searches with its barbels for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The stout pectoral fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye catfish?
The Bigeye catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly large eyes and long barbels; nocturnal small river catfish with stout fin spines.
Where does the Bigeye catfish live?
The Bigeye catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern South America; sandy bottoms in quiet parts of large rivers.
How big does the Bigeye catfish get?
The Bigeye catfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Bigeye catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Bigeye catfish edible?
The Bigeye catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pimelodella
More from the family Heptapteridae
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.