Fin's Fish Guide
The Black bristlemouth catfish (Pseudancistrus niger) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The black bristlemouth catfish is a South American armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae from the Oyapock basin in French Guiana. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a flattened, dark body armoured with rows of bony plates, and a downward-facing suckermouth; the edges of the head and gill covers bear rows of small, bristle-like odontodes. It is not very common and occurs in rapids, together with related armoured catfishes. With its rasping suckermouth it scrapes algae, growth and detritus from stones. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black bristlemouth catfish?
The Black bristlemouth catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Armoured body with beard-like spinelets (odontodes) on the head and opercula; algae scraper of rapids.
Where does the Black bristlemouth catfish live?
The Black bristlemouth catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; Oyapock basin in French Guiana, in rapids.
How big does the Black bristlemouth catfish get?
The Black bristlemouth catfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Black bristlemouth catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black bristlemouth catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black bristlemouth catfish edible?
The Black bristlemouth catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudancistrus
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Black bristlemouth catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black bristlemouth catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.