Fin's Fish Guide
The Christy's suckermouth catfish (Atopochilus christyi) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
Christy's suckermouth catfish is a catfish of the family Mochokidae from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a flattened body with a large, sucker-disc-like lower lip and folded fins, with which it clings to stones in fast-flowing water. It inhabits rocky, fast-flowing rivers and streams. With its sucker mouth it grazes the growth layer of algae and small invertebrates from the stones. The stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can give a puncture wound; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Christy's suckermouth catfish?
The Christy's suckermouth catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Sucker-disc-like lower lip to attach itself to stones in fast-flowing water.
Where does the Christy's suckermouth catfish live?
The Christy's suckermouth catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Congo basin in Central Africa; rocky fast-flowing rivers.
How big does the Christy's suckermouth catfish get?
The Christy's suckermouth catfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Christy's suckermouth catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Christy's suckermouth 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 Christy's suckermouth catfish edible?
The Christy's suckermouth catfish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Christy's suckermouth catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Christy's suckermouth catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Atopochilus
More from the family Mochokidae
Want the complete picture on the Christy's suckermouth catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Christy's suckermouth catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.