Fin's Fish Guide
The Guiana whiptail catfish (Harttia guianensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Guiana whiptail catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fast-flowing fresh water of the Guianas in South America. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a strongly flattened, bony-plated, yellow-brown body with a broad sucker mouth and a long, thin tail stalk. As a bottom-dweller it clings to stones in the current and rasps algae and growth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Guiana whiptail catfish?
The Guiana whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Guiana whiptail catfish live?
The Guiana whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: French Guiana
How big does the Guiana whiptail catfish get?
The Guiana whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Guiana whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Guiana 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 Harttia
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Guiana whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Guiana whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.