Fin's Fish Guide
The Pirareta bristlenose (Ancistrus pirareta) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The Pirareta bristlenose is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of the Paraguay basin in South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, brown-mottled, bony-plated body and a sucker mouth underneath; adult males bear a bush of fleshy tentacles (bristles) on the snout. As a bottom-dweller it clings to wood and stones of flowing rivers and rasps algae and biofilm. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pirareta bristlenose?
The Pirareta bristlenose has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Pirareta bristlenose live?
The Pirareta bristlenose lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. South America: Paraguay
How big does the Pirareta bristlenose get?
The Pirareta bristlenose grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Pirareta bristlenose dangerous to humans?
No, the Pirareta bristlenose 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 Ancistrus
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Pirareta bristlenose?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pirareta bristlenose is one of 12,519 species in the app.