Fin's Fish Guide
The Dwarf thorny catfish (Physopyxis lyra) is a freshwater fish of the family Doradidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The dwarf thorny catfish is a minute thorny catfish from fresh water of the Amazon basin of South America. The species reaches only about 4 cm and has a stocky body armoured with bony, thorned plates and short barbels. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among leaf litter and wood and searches at night for small invertebrates and detritus. The thorned plates provide protection against predators. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dwarf thorny catfish?
The Dwarf thorny catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Thorny bony armour plates; nocturnal dwarf catfish
Where does the Dwarf thorny catfish live?
The Dwarf thorny catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Amazon basin
How big does the Dwarf thorny catfish get?
The Dwarf thorny catfish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Dwarf thorny catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dwarf thorny 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 Dwarf thorny catfish edible?
The Dwarf thorny catfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Doradidae
Want the complete picture on the Dwarf thorny catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dwarf thorny catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.