Fin's Fish Guide
The Spiny catfish (Acanthodoras cataphractus) is a freshwater fish of the family Doradidae that grows up to 12 cm.
South America; calm waters of swamps and mangroves of the Amazon basin.
Description
The spiny catfish is a South American catfish of the thorny catfish family (Doradidae) from the Amazon basin. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, dark body with a row of bony, hook-bearing plates along the flank and stout, serrated pectoral spines. It is abundant in calm waters of swamps and mangroves. As an omnivore it roots in the bottom at night for small invertebrates, molluscs and plant matter. When disturbed it makes an audible creaking or 'talking' sound with the pectoral spines. Those sharp, serrated spines can give painful puncture wounds, so handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spiny catfish?
The Spiny catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bony row of plates with hooks and serrated pectoral fin spines; makes a 'talking' grinding sound.
Where does the Spiny catfish live?
The Spiny catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; calm waters of swamps and mangroves of the Amazon basin.
How big does the Spiny catfish get?
The Spiny catfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Spiny catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spiny 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 Spiny catfish edible?
The Spiny catfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Acanthodoras
More from the family Doradidae
Want the complete picture on the Spiny catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spiny catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.