Fin's Fish Guide
The Broadmouth whiptail catfish (Cteniloricaria platystoma) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The broadmouth whiptail catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fast-flowing fresh water of Suriname and French Guiana. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a flattened, bony-plated, yellow-brown body with a broad sucker mouth and a long, thin tail stalk. As a bottom-dweller it clings to stones in the current and rasps algae and growth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broadmouth whiptail catfish?
The Broadmouth whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Broadmouth whiptail catfish live?
The Broadmouth whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Suriname
How big does the Broadmouth whiptail catfish get?
The Broadmouth whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Broadmouth whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Broadmouth 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
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Broadmouth whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broadmouth whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.