Fin's Fish Guide
The Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco (Hypoptopoma sternoptychum) is a fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a flattened, bony-plated, brown body and an inferior sucker mouth with which it clings to wood and stones. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it rasps algae, biofilm and wood and searches for small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco?
The Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco is mainly brown.
Where does the Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco live?
The Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco get?
The Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco dangerous to humans?
No, the Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hypoptopoma
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hatchetbelly dwarf pleco is one of 12,519 species in the app.