Fin's Fish Guide
The Bristly catfish (Amblydoras affinis) is a freshwater fish of the family Doradidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The Bristly catfish is a thorny catfish (Doradidae) from slow-flowing fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a sturdy, dark body with a row of bony, thorned plates along the flank and strong barbels; by vibrating its swim bladder it makes a grunting sound. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day under wood and roots and searches at night for snails, insect larvae and detritus. The stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bristly catfish?
The Bristly catfish 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 Bristly catfish live?
The Bristly catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Bolivia, Brazil, Guyana
How big does the Bristly catfish get?
The Bristly catfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Bristly catfish dangerous to humans?
The Bristly catfish 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.
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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 Bristly catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bristly catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.