Fin's Fish Guide
The Flagtail prochilodus (Semaprochilodus insignis) is a freshwater fish of the family Prochilodontidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The flagtail prochilodus is a characin relative from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 22 cm and has a deep, silvery body with a fleshy, protrusible sucker mouth and strikingly black-and-yellow or black-and-orange banded tail and fins. As a bottom-feeder it rasps algal mat, aufwuchs and detritus from stones and wood and swims in large schools that make seasonal migrations (piracema) to spawn. It is an important food fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flagtail prochilodus?
The Flagtail prochilodus has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Protrusible sucking mouth and a banded tail; schooling migratory fish (piracema)
Where does the Flagtail prochilodus live?
The Flagtail prochilodus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Flagtail prochilodus get?
The Flagtail prochilodus grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Flagtail prochilodus dangerous to humans?
No, the Flagtail prochilodus 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 Flagtail prochilodus edible?
Yes, the Flagtail prochilodus is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Semaprochilodus
More from the family Prochilodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Flagtail prochilodus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flagtail prochilodus is one of 12,519 species in the app.