Fin's Fish Guide
The Flagtail catfish (Dianema urostriatum) is a freshwater fish of the family Callichthyidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The flagtail catfish is an armoured catfish (Callichthyidae) from fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has an elongate, bony-plated, brownish body with barbels and a striking black-and-white striped tail fin. As a social bottom-dweller it searches sand and mud bottoms in schools for worms, insect larvae and detritus. The stout spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins carry a mild venom and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flagtail catfish?
The Flagtail catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Flagtail catfish live?
The Flagtail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil
How big does the Flagtail catfish get?
The Flagtail catfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Flagtail catfish dangerous to humans?
The Flagtail catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dianema
More from the family Callichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Flagtail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flagtail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.