The Striped twig catfish (Farlowella vittata) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The striped twig catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of the Orinoco basin in South America. The species grows to about 23 cm and has an extraordinarily thin, elongate, brown body with a long snout and a dark longitudinal stripe, making it look exactly like a dead twig. As a bottom-dweller it sits motionless by day on wood and roots in flowing water and rasps algae and growth with its sucker mouth. The fish is harmless to humans and is known from the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striped twig catfish?
The Striped twig catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Striped twig catfish live?
The Striped twig catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Striped twig catfish get?
The Striped twig catfish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Striped twig catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Striped twig catfish is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Farlowella
More from the family Loricariidae
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