Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender dwarf catfish (Rhamdella longiuscula) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The slender dwarf catfish is a long-whiskered catfish (Heptapteridae) from fresh water of southeastern South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, scaleless, grey-brown body with three pairs of long barbels and an adipose fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud of rivers and streams for insect larvae, small crustaceans and worms. The stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender dwarf catfish?
The Slender dwarf catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Slender dwarf catfish live?
The Slender dwarf catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil
How big does the Slender dwarf catfish get?
The Slender dwarf catfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Slender dwarf catfish dangerous to humans?
The Slender dwarf 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
More from the family Heptapteridae
Want the complete picture on the Slender dwarf catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender dwarf catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.