Fin's Fish Guide
The Shield whale catfish (Cetopsis parma) is a freshwater fish of the family Cetopsidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The shield whale catfish is a whale catfish (Cetopsidae) from large rivers of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, scaleless, smooth, greyish body with a blunt head, small eyes and short barbels. It is known as a voracious scavenger and predator that can bite into dead or large fish with sharp teeth. To humans it is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shield whale catfish?
The Shield whale catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Shield whale catfish live?
The Shield whale catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Ecuador, Peru
How big does the Shield whale catfish get?
The Shield whale catfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Shield whale catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Shield whale 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
Same genus Cetopsis
More from the family Cetopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Shield whale catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shield whale catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.