Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Loricariichthys maculatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The spotted whiptail catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from northern South America. The species has an elongate body armoured with bony plates that tapers into a thin, whip-like tail, and an inferior sucker mouth. It inhabits ditches, ponds and slow-flowing waters with a soft bottom. With its sucker mouth it grazes algae, aufwuchs and detritus from the bottom and plant stems. Notably, the male carries the egg clutch on his lower lip until they hatch. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bony armour with a whip-shaped tail; the male carries the egg mass on his lower lip.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern South America; ditches, ponds and slow waters.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Catfish edible?
The Catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Loricariichthys
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.