Fin's Fish Guide
The Demon catfish (Auchenipterus nuchalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
Auchenipterus nuchalis is a South American catfish of the family Auchenipteridae (driftwood catfishes) from the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The species has an elongate, silvery body with large eyes and barbels, and reaches about 27 cm. Unlike many catfishes this is a free-swimming species that often stays near the surface in the lower reaches of large rivers. It is mainly active at night and dusk and hunts smaller fishes. The male is recognised by his thick, ossified maxillary barbels, which play a role in the internal fertilisation characteristic of this family.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Demon catfish?
The Demon catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Free-swimming catfish near the surface; the male with ossified upper-jaw barbels, internal fertilisation.
Where does the Demon catfish live?
The Demon catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Lower reaches of large rivers in northern South America.
How big does the Demon catfish get?
The Demon catfish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Demon catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Demon 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 Demon catfish edible?
The Demon catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Auchenipterus
More from the family Auchenipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Demon catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Demon catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.