Fin's Fish Guide
The Fowler's whiptail catfish (Harttia fowleri) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
Fowler's whiptail catfish is a South American armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae from the Guianas. The species grows to about 22 cm and has a strongly flattened, elongate body armoured with rows of bony plates, and a downward-facing suckermouth. It is adapted to life in rapids, where it clings to stones with its suckermouth. With its rasping suckermouth it scrapes algae, growth and detritus from the substrate. Little is known about the species; it was collected from the rapids. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fowler's whiptail catfish?
The Fowler's whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Strongly flattened, armoured body; attaches to stones in rapids with its sucker mouth.
Where does the Fowler's whiptail catfish live?
The Fowler's whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; rapids of rivers in the Guianas.
How big does the Fowler's whiptail catfish get?
The Fowler's whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Fowler's whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Fowler's whiptail catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fowler's whiptail catfish edible?
The Fowler's whiptail catfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Harttia
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Fowler's whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fowler's whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.