Fin's Fish Guide
The Natterer's twig catfish (Farlowella nattereri) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
The Natterer's twig catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 26 cm and has an extraordinarily thin, elongate, brown body with a long snout, making it look exactly like a dead twig. As a bottom-dweller it sits motionless by day on wood and roots in flowing water and rasps algae and growth with its sucker mouth. The fish is harmless to humans and is known from the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Natterer's twig catfish?
The Natterer's twig catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Natterer's twig catfish live?
The Natterer's twig catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru
How big does the Natterer's twig catfish get?
The Natterer's twig catfish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Natterer's twig catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Natterer's twig 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
Same genus Farlowella
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Natterer's twig catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Natterer's twig catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.