Fin's Fish Guide
The Driftwood catfish (Trachelyopterus coriaceus) is a freshwater fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The driftwood catfish is a catfish from fresh water of northern South America, including the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with tough, leathery skin, a broad head and three pairs of barbels. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among driftwood and roots and searches at night for insects, small fish and plant remains. The pectoral spines can prick. The fish is otherwise harmless to humans and has not been evaluated by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Driftwood catfish?
The Driftwood catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Tough leathery skin; nocturnal driftwood catfish
Where does the Driftwood catfish live?
The Driftwood catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern South America
How big does the Driftwood catfish get?
The Driftwood catfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Driftwood catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Driftwood 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 Driftwood catfish edible?
The Driftwood 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 Trachelyopterus
More from the family Auchenipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Driftwood catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Driftwood catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.