Fin's Fish Guide
The Lanceolate whiptail catfish (Rineloricaria lanceolata) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The lanceolate whiptail catfish is a slender armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from the western Amazon basin of South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has an elongate, bony-plated, chocolate-brown body, a sucker mouth and a long, thin tail stalk. As a bottom-dweller it lives over sand and wood bottoms of rivers and rasps growth, algae and detritus. The male guards the eggs. The fish is harmless to humans and is known from the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lanceolate whiptail catfish?
The Lanceolate whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Lanceolate whiptail catfish live?
The Lanceolate whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Peru
How big does the Lanceolate whiptail catfish get?
The Lanceolate whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Lanceolate whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Lanceolate 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.
Is the Lanceolate whiptail catfish edible?
Yes, the Lanceolate whiptail catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rineloricaria
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Lanceolate whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lanceolate whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.