Fin's Fish Guide
The Capitan catfish (Eremophilus mutisii) is a freshwater fish of the family Trichomycteridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Capitan catfish is a catfish endemic to the high-altitude Bogota basin in the Andes of Colombia. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, scaleless, smooth body with barbels and strongly reduced pelvic fins. As a bottom-dweller it lives in cool, high-altitude rivers, marshes and lakes and feeds on insect larvae, small crustaceans and worms. It has traditionally been an important local food fish, but is declining owing to water pollution and introduced species. The IUCN assesses the species as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Capitan catfish?
The Capitan catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Smooth scaleless body with barbels; high-altitude Andean catfish
Where does the Capitan catfish live?
The Capitan catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Andes of Colombia (endemic)
How big does the Capitan catfish get?
The Capitan catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Capitan catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Capitan 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.
Is the Capitan catfish edible?
Yes, the Capitan catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Trichomycteridae
Want the complete picture on the Capitan catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Capitan catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.