Fin's Fish Guide
The Lophiobagrus brevispinis is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The shortspine Tanganyika catfish is a small catfish endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species reaches only about 5 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with smooth skin and barbels. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among stones along the rocky shore and searches at night for small invertebrates. Its skin secretes a toxic mucus that protects it against predators. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lophiobagrus brevispinis?
The Lophiobagrus brevispinis has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Smooth skin with toxic defensive mucus; nocturnal small rock catfish
Where does the Lophiobagrus brevispinis live?
The Lophiobagrus brevispinis lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Tanganyika (endemic)
How big does the Lophiobagrus brevispinis get?
The Lophiobagrus brevispinis grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Lophiobagrus brevispinis dangerous to humans?
No, the Lophiobagrus brevispinis 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 Lophiobagrus brevispinis edible?
The Lophiobagrus brevispinis is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lophiobagrus
More from the family Claroteidae
Want the complete picture on the Lophiobagrus brevispinis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lophiobagrus brevispinis is one of 12,519 species in the app.