Fin's Fish Guide
The Knobnose whiptail catfish (Hemiodontichthys acipenserinus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The knobnose whiptail catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from South America. The species has an elongate body armoured with bony plates, a strongly elongate, knobbly snout and an inferior sucker mouth. It lives bottom-bound on sandy bottoms, where it often buries itself, and feeds on worms and small crustaceans. Adult males develop elongate lip-skin flaps. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Knobnose whiptail catfish?
The Knobnose whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Greatly elongated, knobbly sturgeon-like snout; burrowing armoured catfish of sandy bottoms.
Where does the Knobnose whiptail catfish live?
The Knobnose whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; sandy bottoms of rivers.
How big does the Knobnose whiptail catfish get?
The Knobnose whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Knobnose whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Knobnose whiptail catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Knobnose whiptail catfish edible?
The Knobnose whiptail 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 Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Knobnose whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Knobnose whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.