Fin's Fish Guide
The Roman's driftwood catfish (Centromochlus romani) is a fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Roman's driftwood catfish is a driftwood catfish (Auchenipteridae) from slow-flowing fresh water of the Orinoco basin in South America. The species grows to about 15 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 Roman's driftwood catfish?
The Roman's driftwood catfish is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Roman's driftwood catfish live?
The Roman's driftwood catfish is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Roman's driftwood catfish get?
The Roman's driftwood catfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Roman's driftwood catfish dangerous to humans?
The Roman's 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 Centromochlus
More from the family Auchenipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Roman's driftwood catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Roman's driftwood catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.