Fin's Fish Guide
The Marbled catfish (Helogenes marmoratus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cetopsidae that grows up to 8 cm.
South America: Brazil, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and others
Description
The marbled catfish is a small catfish (Cetopsidae) from the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 8 cm and has an elongate, brown-marbled, scaleless body with three pairs of long barbels and a long anal fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it hides by day among leaf litter and roots of slow, dark waters and searches at night for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marbled catfish?
The Marbled catfish has an elongate, eel-like body.
Where does the Marbled catfish live?
The Marbled catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and others
How big does the Marbled catfish get?
The Marbled catfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Marbled catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Marbled 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cetopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Marbled catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marbled catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.