Fin's Fish Guide
The Longtail antenna catfish (Chasmocranus longior) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
Chasmocranus longior is a small catfish of the family Heptapteridae from northern South America. The species has an elongate, tapering body with barbels and a mottled, brownish pattern, and reaches about 17 cm. It lives in creeks with rocky bottoms and in zones where the water level changes strongly, where it hides under stones and among water plants such as Podostemaceae by day. Like other Heptapteridae the colour pattern provides excellent camouflage on the bottom. As a bottom dweller it feeds on small invertebrates and insect larvae. Owing to its secretive habits little is known about its biology.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longtail antenna catfish?
The Longtail antenna catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Marbled camouflage; hides under stones during the day in changing water levels.
Where does the Longtail antenna catfish live?
The Longtail antenna catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Creeks with rocky bottoms of northern South America.
How big does the Longtail antenna catfish get?
The Longtail antenna catfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Longtail antenna catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Longtail antenna 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 Longtail antenna catfish edible?
The Longtail antenna catfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Chasmocranus
More from the family Heptapteridae
Want the complete picture on the Longtail antenna catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longtail antenna catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.