Fin's Fish Guide
The Graceful pimelodella (Pimelodella gracilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The graceful pimelodella is a small catfish from South America, widely distributed in the Amazon, Orinoco and La Plata basins. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a slender, silver-grey body with a dark longitudinal stripe and very long barbels, characteristic of the antenna catfishes. As a bottom-dweller it is nocturnal and searches with its barbels for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. It has sharp pectoral spines; handle with care. The fish is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Graceful pimelodella?
The Graceful pimelodella has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Very long barbels; sharp pectoral fin spines; night hunter
Where does the Graceful pimelodella live?
The Graceful pimelodella lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America
How big does the Graceful pimelodella get?
The Graceful pimelodella grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Graceful pimelodella dangerous to humans?
No, the Graceful pimelodella 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 Graceful pimelodella edible?
The Graceful pimelodella is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pimelodella
More from the family Heptapteridae
Want the complete picture on the Graceful pimelodella?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Graceful pimelodella is one of 12,519 species in the app.