Fin's Fish Guide
The Reticulate twig catfish (Farlowella reticulata) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 15 cm.
South America; among branches and roots in calm to moderately flowing waters of the Guianas.
Description
The reticulate twig catfish is a remarkable South American armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae from the Guianas. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an extremely thin, elongate, brownish body with a long, pointed snout, so closely resembling a twig or piece of brushwood that it is barely distinguishable from one - a form of camouflage by mimicry. It lives among branches, roots and leaf litter in quiet to moderately flowing waters. With its rasping suckermouth it scrapes algae, growth and film from the substrate. Owing to its twig shape it is barely noticed. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Reticulate twig catfish?
The Reticulate twig catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Extremely thin, twig-shaped body that mimics a twig (mimicry); rasping sucker mouth.
Where does the Reticulate twig catfish live?
The Reticulate twig catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; among branches and roots in calm to moderately flowing waters of the Guianas.
How big does the Reticulate twig catfish get?
The Reticulate twig catfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Reticulate twig catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Reticulate twig catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Reticulate twig catfish edible?
The Reticulate twig catfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Farlowella
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Reticulate twig catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Reticulate twig catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.