Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Pimelodella chagresi) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The graceful catfish is a slender catfish (Heptapteridae) from Panama and northern South America. The species has an elongate, silvery-grey body with very long barbels, an adipose fin and a dark lengthwise stripe. It inhabits rivers and streams at various elevations, in moderate current over sand, gravel and rock bottoms. As a nocturnal omnivore it searches with its long barbels for insect larvae, small invertebrates and organic material. The stout pectoral fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very long barbels; small nocturnal catfish with stout pectoral fin spines.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Panama and northern South America; rivers and streams.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
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 Pimelodella
More from the family Heptapteridae
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.