Fin's Fish Guide
The Orinoco thorny catfish (Orinocodoras eigenmanni) is a freshwater fish of the family Doradidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The Orinoco thorny catfish is a thorny catfish (Doradidae) from rivers and floodplains of the Orinoco basin in South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a sturdy, brown body with a row of bony, hooked plates along the flank, barbels and stout, serrated spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for snails, worms and small invertebrates. The serrated fin spines can give a painful cut.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Orinoco thorny catfish?
The Orinoco thorny catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Orinoco thorny catfish live?
The Orinoco thorny catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Venezuela
How big does the Orinoco thorny catfish get?
The Orinoco thorny catfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Orinoco thorny catfish dangerous to humans?
The Orinoco thorny catfish 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
More from the family Doradidae
Want the complete picture on the Orinoco thorny catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Orinoco thorny catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.