Fin's Fish Guide
The Slendertail catfish (Phractura tenuicauda) is a freshwater fish of the family Amphiliidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Central Africa; fast-flowing streams and rivers with a rocky bottom of the Congo basin.
Description
The slendertail catfish is a small African catfish of the loach catfish family (Amphiliidae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm and has an elongate, slender body with a conspicuously thin, extended tail stem, barbels and rows of small bony plates. It inhabits fast-flowing brooks and rivers with a rocky bottom, where it moves over the bottom among stones. Unlike many catfishes, loach catfishes lack strong, serrated spines and are harmless to handle. It feeds on insect larvae and small benthic invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slendertail catfish?
The Slendertail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Strikingly thin, elongated caudal peduncle and small bony plates; lacks the strong spines of other catfishes.
Where does the Slendertail catfish live?
The Slendertail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central Africa; fast-flowing streams and rivers with a rocky bottom of the Congo basin.
How big does the Slendertail catfish get?
The Slendertail catfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Slendertail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Slendertail catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Slendertail catfish edible?
The Slendertail catfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Phractura
More from the family Amphiliidae
Want the complete picture on the Slendertail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slendertail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.