Fin's Fish Guide
The Borelli's pencil catfish (Trichomycterus borellii) is a freshwater fish of the family Trichomycteridae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The Borelli's pencil catfish is a pencil catfish (Trichomycteridae) from fast-flowing, clear fresh water of southern South America. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a very slender, almost scaleless, yellow-brown body with small barbels and spinelets on the gill cover. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it creeps and wriggles among gravel, sand and stones of mountain streams and snaps at insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Borelli's pencil catfish?
The Borelli's pencil catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Borelli's pencil catfish live?
The Borelli's pencil catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Bolivia
How big does the Borelli's pencil catfish get?
The Borelli's pencil catfish grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Borelli's pencil catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Borelli's pencil 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trichomycterus
More from the family Trichomycteridae
Want the complete picture on the Borelli's pencil catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Borelli's pencil catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.