Fin's Fish Guide
The Goeldi's catfish (Goeldiella eques) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 29 cm.
Description
Goeldi's catfish is a catfish from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 29 cm and has an elongate, scaleless body with a broad head, three pairs of barbels and an adipose fin. On the dorsal and pectoral fins it bears strong spines that can prick when handled. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among wood and roots and searches at night for insects, crustaceans and small fish. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goeldi's catfish?
The Goeldi's catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Broad head, barbels and an adipose fin; nocturnal bottom catfish
Where does the Goeldi's catfish live?
The Goeldi's catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Goeldi's catfish get?
The Goeldi's catfish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Goeldi's catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Goeldi's 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.
Is the Goeldi's catfish edible?
The Goeldi's catfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Heptapteridae
Want the complete picture on the Goeldi's catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Goeldi's catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.