Fin's Fish Guide
The Flathead whiptail catfish (Loricariichthys platymetopon) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The Flathead whiptail catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of the Parana and Paraguay basins in South America. The species grows to about 38 cm and has a flattened, bony-plated, yellow-brown body, a broad sucker mouth and a long, thin tail stalk. As a bottom-dweller it rasps algae, growth and detritus from the bottom and wood; the male carries the eggs beneath the lower lip. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flathead whiptail catfish?
The Flathead whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Flathead whiptail catfish live?
The Flathead whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay
How big does the Flathead whiptail catfish get?
The Flathead whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Flathead whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Flathead whiptail 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 Loricariichthys
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Flathead whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flathead whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.