Fin's Fish Guide
The Flathead longwhisker catfish (Megalonema platycephalum) is a freshwater fish of the family Pimelodidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The flathead longwhisker catfish is a long-whiskered catfish (Pimelodidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, silver-grey, scaleless body with a flattened head, very long barbels and a deeply forked tail. As a nocturnal bottom predator it migrates through rivers and hunts insect larvae, crustaceans and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flathead longwhisker catfish?
The Flathead longwhisker catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Flathead longwhisker catfish live?
The Flathead longwhisker catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Venezuela
How big does the Flathead longwhisker catfish get?
The Flathead longwhisker catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Flathead longwhisker catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Flathead longwhisker 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
More from the family Pimelodidae
Want the complete picture on the Flathead longwhisker catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flathead longwhisker catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.