Fin's Fish Guide
The Pale driftwood catfish (Glanidium albescens) is a freshwater fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Pale driftwood catfish is a driftwood catfish (Auchenipteridae) from slow-flowing fresh water of the Parana basin in southeastern South America. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a sturdy, scaleless, dark body with a broad head, large eyes and stiff barbels. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day under wood, roots and banks and snaps at insects, crustaceans and small fish. The stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pale driftwood catfish?
The Pale driftwood catfish has an elongate, eel-like 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 Pale driftwood catfish live?
The Pale driftwood catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil
How big does the Pale driftwood catfish get?
The Pale driftwood catfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Pale driftwood catfish dangerous to humans?
The Pale driftwood catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Glanidium
More from the family Auchenipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Pale driftwood catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pale driftwood catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.