Fin's Fish Guide
The Black ripsaw catfish (Oxydoras niger) is a freshwater fish of the family Doradidae that grows up to 100 cm.
South America: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru and others
Description
The black ripsaw catfish is a large thorny catfish (Doradidae) from the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 1 metre and has a heavy, dark-grey to black body with a row of bony, saw-like side plates and three pairs of barbels. As a bottom-oriented omnivore it searches sand and mud bottoms of large rivers for detritus, invertebrates and plant material. It is an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans, though the side plates and fin spines can graze.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black ripsaw catfish?
The Black ripsaw catfish has an elongate, eel-like body.
Where does the Black ripsaw catfish live?
The Black ripsaw catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru and others
How big does the Black ripsaw catfish get?
The Black ripsaw catfish grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 59 cm.
Is the Black ripsaw catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black ripsaw 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.
Is the Black ripsaw catfish edible?
Yes, the Black ripsaw catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Black ripsaw catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black ripsaw catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.