Fin's Fish Guide
The Singing catfish (Trachelyopterus striatulus) is a freshwater fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The striped driftwood catfish is a catfish from fresh water of northern South America, including the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The species grows to about 28 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with tough skin and three pairs of barbels. When caught it can make grunting or 'singing' sounds with its pectoral girdle. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among driftwood and searches at night for insects, small fish and plant remains. The pectoral spines can prick. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Singing catfish?
The Singing catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Makes 'singing' sounds with the pectoral girdle; nocturnal driftwood catfish
Where does the Singing catfish live?
The Singing catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Singing catfish get?
The Singing catfish grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Singing catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Singing 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.
Is the Singing catfish edible?
The Singing catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trachelyopterus
More from the family Auchenipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Singing catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Singing catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.