Fin's Fish Guide
The Colombian bocachico (Prochilodus reticulatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Prochilodontidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The Colombian bocachico is a freshwater fish of the family Prochilodontidae from northern South America, the Maracaibo basin in Colombia and Venezuela. The species reaches about 28 cm and has a silvery-grey body with a round, sucker-like ventral mouth with fleshy lips. With this it grazes detritus and algae from the bottom. The fish makes seasonal migrations and is an important commercial food fish for the local people. Like other prochilodontids it plays an important role in the river food chain through its bottom-grazing habit.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Colombian bocachico?
The Colombian bocachico has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sucker-like lower mouth to graze detritus; important migratory food fish of northern South America.
Where does the Colombian bocachico live?
The Colombian bocachico lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Maracaibo basin in Colombia and Venezuela.
How big does the Colombian bocachico get?
The Colombian bocachico grows to a maximum of about 28 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Colombian bocachico dangerous to humans?
No, the Colombian bocachico is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Colombian bocachico edible?
Yes, the Colombian bocachico is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Prochilodus
More from the family Prochilodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Colombian bocachico?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Colombian bocachico is one of 12,519 species in the app.