Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender antenna catfish (Heptapterus tenuis) is a fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The slender antenna catfish is a small catfish (Heptapteridae) from fresh water of southeastern South America. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a very elongate, scaleless, eel-like body with three pairs of barbels and a continuous, low fin margin around the tail. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it hides by day among stones and leaf litter of streams and searches at night for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender antenna catfish?
The Slender antenna catfish is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Eel-like naked body with three pairs of barbels; nocturnal catfish
Where does the Slender antenna catfish live?
The Slender antenna catfish is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern South America
How big does the Slender antenna catfish get?
The Slender antenna catfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Slender antenna catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Slender antenna 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 Slender antenna catfish edible?
The Slender antenna catfish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Slender antenna catfish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Heptapterus
More from the family Heptapteridae
Want the complete picture on the Slender antenna catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender antenna catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.