Fin's Fish Guide
The Patagonian pencil catfish (Hatcheria macraei) is a freshwater fish of the family Trichomycteridae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The Patagonian pencil catfish is a pencil catfish (Trichomycteridae) from cold, fast-flowing rivers and streams of Patagonia in southern South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a slender, almost scaleless, yellow-brown body with barbels and small eyes. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it creeps and wriggles among gravel, sand and stones and snaps at insect larvae and small invertebrates. It is one of the few native freshwater fish of the region. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Patagonian pencil catfish?
The Patagonian pencil catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Patagonian pencil catfish live?
The Patagonian pencil catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina
How big does the Patagonian pencil catfish get?
The Patagonian pencil catfish grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Patagonian pencil catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Patagonian pencil 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
More from the family Trichomycteridae
Want the complete picture on the Patagonian pencil catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Patagonian pencil catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.