Fin's Fish Guide
The Dwarf Nile catfish (Mochokus niloticus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Nile mochokid is a small catfish of the family Mochokidae from Africa, including the Nile and Niger basins. The species is small and has a stocky, scaleless body with barbels and stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines. It lives on the bottom of rivers and swamps, where with its barbels it searches for insect larvae, small invertebrates and detritus. It is oviparous. The serrated fin spines can give a painful puncture wound; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dwarf Nile catfish?
The Dwarf Nile catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small bottom-dwelling catfish with serrated fin spines from the Nile and Niger basins.
Where does the Dwarf Nile catfish live?
The Dwarf Nile catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa, including the Nile and Niger basins; rivers and swamps.
How big does the Dwarf Nile catfish get?
The Dwarf Nile catfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Dwarf Nile catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dwarf Nile 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 Dwarf Nile catfish edible?
The Dwarf Nile catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mochokus
More from the family Mochokidae
Want the complete picture on the Dwarf Nile catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dwarf Nile catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.