Fin's Fish Guide
The Eel catfish (Heptapterus mustelinus) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The eel catfish is a three-barbeled catfish (Heptapteridae) from fresh water of the La Plata basin in southern South America. The species grows to about 26 cm and has a strongly elongate, eel-like, grey-brown, scaleless body with long barbels and small eyes. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among stones and roots of flowing streams and searches for insect larvae and small invertebrates at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eel catfish?
The Eel catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Eel catfish live?
The Eel catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Suriname, Uruguay
How big does the Eel catfish get?
The Eel catfish grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Eel catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Eel 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Heptapterus
More from the family Heptapteridae
Want the complete picture on the Eel catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eel catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.