Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacklip whiptail catfish (Loricariichthys melanocheilus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Description
The blacklip whiptail catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of the Uruguay and La Plata basins in South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, flattened, bony-plated body that tapers into a long, thin tail, with a sucker mouth with blackish lips underneath. As a bottom-dweller it clings to sand, wood and stones and rasps algae and detritus. Remarkably the male carries the eggs under his spread lips. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacklip whiptail catfish?
The Blacklip whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Blacklip whiptail catfish live?
The Blacklip whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. South America: Argentina, Brazil
How big does the Blacklip whiptail catfish get?
The Blacklip whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Blacklip whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacklip 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Loricariichthys
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Blacklip whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacklip whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.