Fin's Fish Guide
Long-fin armored catfish
The Long-fin armored catfish (Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The sailfin pleco is a large suckermouth catfish from fresh water of the Orinoco and Amazon basins of South America. The species grows to about 50 cm and has an elongate body covered with bony plates and a spotted pattern, a large sail-like dorsal fin and a fleshy sucker mouth. As a bottom-dweller it clings to stones and wood in rivers and grazes algae, aufwuchs and detritus; it can breathe air with its gut. In some areas outside its native range it is invasive. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Long-fin armored catfish?
The Long-fin armored catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Large sail-shaped dorsal fin and bony armour plates; algae grazer with intestinal respiration
Where does the Long-fin armored catfish live?
The Long-fin armored catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Orinoco and Amazon basins
How big does the Long-fin armored catfish get?
The Long-fin armored catfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Long-fin armored catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Long-fin armored 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 Long-fin armored catfish edible?
The Long-fin armored catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pterygoplichthys
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Long-fin armored catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Long-fin armored catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.