Fin's Fish Guide
The Modest pimelodella (Pimelodella modestus) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The modest pimelodella is a long-whiskered catfish (Heptapteridae) from rivers and streams of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, scaleless, silver-grey body with very long barbels, an adipose fin and stout spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. The fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Modest pimelodella?
The Modest pimelodella has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Modest pimelodella live?
The Modest pimelodella lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Ecuador
How big does the Modest pimelodella get?
The Modest pimelodella grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Modest pimelodella dangerous to humans?
The Modest pimelodella can cause injury; handle it with care. For a puncture or cut from a fin spine: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and remove any visible fragments. Cover and keep clean. For a deep wound, a retained spine or signs of infection see a doctor and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pimelodella
More from the family Heptapteridae
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