Fin's Fish Guide
The Pimelodus albofasciatus is a freshwater fish of the family Pimelodidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
Pimelodus albofasciatus is a catfish of the family Pimelodidae from northern South America, in the Guianas and adjacent Brazil. The species reaches about 30 cm and has an elongate, scaleless body with long barbels and a white band, to which the name refers. It is a nocturnal bottom dweller that searches for food in the dark with its barbels; as an omnivore it eats insects, crustaceans, small fishes and plant matter. In front of the pectoral and dorsal fins it bears sharp spines that can cause puncture wounds when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pimelodus albofasciatus?
The Pimelodus albofasciatus has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Long barbels and a white band; sharp fin spines that cause injuries when handled.
Where does the Pimelodus albofasciatus live?
The Pimelodus albofasciatus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. The north of South America, in the Guianas and adjacent Brazil.
How big does the Pimelodus albofasciatus get?
The Pimelodus albofasciatus grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Pimelodus albofasciatus dangerous to humans?
The Pimelodus albofasciatus can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but the sharp pectoral and dorsal fin spines can cause painful punctures and cuts when handled. Handle carefully and clean and disinfect a wound.
Is the Pimelodus albofasciatus edible?
The Pimelodus albofasciatus is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Pimelodus
More from the family Pimelodidae
Want the complete picture on the Pimelodus albofasciatus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pimelodus albofasciatus is one of 12,519 species in the app.