Fin's Fish Guide
The Naked-belly whiptail catfish (Spatuloricaria gymnogaster) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 370 cm.
Description
The naked-belly whiptail catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of river basins in northwestern South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a strongly elongate, flattened body armoured with bony plates that tapers into a long, thin tail, with a sucker mouth underneath and a largely unprotected belly. As a bottom-dweller it clings to wood and stones of flowing rivers and rasps algae, biofilm and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Naked-belly whiptail catfish?
The Naked-belly whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Naked-belly whiptail catfish live?
The Naked-belly whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Colombia
How big does the Naked-belly whiptail catfish get?
The Naked-belly whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 370 cm.
Is the Naked-belly whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Naked-belly whiptail 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Naked-belly whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Naked-belly whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.