Fin's Fish Guide
The Smoothside whiptail (Harttia leiopleura) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Smoothside whiptail is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fast-flowing fresh water of river basins of Brazil. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a flattened, bony-plated, brown-speckled body that tapers into a long, thin tail, with a sucker mouth underneath. As a bottom-dweller it clings to stones and wood in clear rivers and rasps algae, biofilm and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smoothside whiptail?
The Smoothside whiptail has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Smoothside whiptail live?
The Smoothside whiptail lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. South America: Brazil
How big does the Smoothside whiptail get?
The Smoothside whiptail grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Smoothside whiptail dangerous to humans?
No, the Smoothside whiptail 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Harttia
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Smoothside whiptail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smoothside whiptail is one of 12,519 species in the app.