Fin's Fish Guide
The Spatula-barbeled catfish (Phyllonemus typus) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; rocky inshore waters to 20 m.
Description
The spatula-barbel catfish is a small African catfish of the family Claroteidae endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a stocky body with barbels whose tips are widened into spatula or leaf shapes, an adipose fin and stout fin spines. It inhabits inshore waters to about 20 metres, restricted to the rocky shore zone. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small invertebrates. Notable is its biparental mouthbrooding, in which both parents can carry the brood in the mouth. The sharp fin spines can prick, so careful handling is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spatula-barbeled catfish?
The Spatula-barbeled catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Barbels with spatula-shaped widened tips; biparental mouthbrooder with stinging fin spines.
Where does the Spatula-barbeled catfish live?
The Spatula-barbeled catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; rocky inshore waters to 20 m.
How big does the Spatula-barbeled catfish get?
The Spatula-barbeled catfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Spatula-barbeled catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spatula-barbeled catfish is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Spatula-barbeled catfish edible?
The Spatula-barbeled catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Phyllonemus
More from the family Claroteidae
Want the complete picture on the Spatula-barbeled catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spatula-barbeled catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.