Fin's Fish Guide
The Imitator catfish (Brachyrhamdia imitator) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The imitator catfish is a small long-whiskered catfish (Heptapteridae) from blackwater streams of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, scaleless, dark body with long barbels; remarkably it mimics the armoured Corydoras catfishes in colour and behaviour and often swims along in their shoals. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The pectoral and dorsal spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Imitator catfish?
The Imitator catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Imitator catfish live?
The Imitator catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Venezuela
How big does the Imitator catfish get?
The Imitator catfish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Imitator catfish dangerous to humans?
The Imitator catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
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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 Imitator catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Imitator catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.