Fin's Fish Guide
The Bonebarbel woodcat (Auchenipterus osteomystax) is a freshwater fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 39 cm.
Description
The Bonebarbel woodcat is a driftwood catfish (Auchenipteridae) from fresh water of the Parana and Paraguay basins in South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, grey-brown body with a flat head, barbels and an adipose fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day in cavities and under wood and hunts insects, small fish and invertebrates by night; fertilisation is internal. The stout, sharp dorsal and pectoral spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bonebarbel woodcat?
The Bonebarbel woodcat has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Bonebarbel woodcat live?
The Bonebarbel woodcat lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay
How big does the Bonebarbel woodcat get?
The Bonebarbel woodcat grows to a maximum of about 39 cm.
Is the Bonebarbel woodcat dangerous to humans?
The Bonebarbel woodcat can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Auchenipterus
More from the family Auchenipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Bonebarbel woodcat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bonebarbel woodcat is one of 12,519 species in the app.