Fin's Fish Guide
The Spoonlip whiptail catfish (Loricariichthys anus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Description
The spoonlip whiptail catfish is an armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from fresh water of the La Plata basin in southern South America. The species grows to about 46 cm and has a flattened, bony-plated, yellow-brown body, a broad sucker mouth and a long, thin tail stalk. Remarkably, the male carries the cluster of eggs beneath his spoon-shaped lower lip. As a bottom-dweller it rasps algae, growth and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spoonlip whiptail catfish?
The Spoonlip whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Spoonlip whiptail catfish live?
The Spoonlip whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay
How big does the Spoonlip whiptail catfish get?
The Spoonlip whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Spoonlip whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spoonlip whiptail catfish 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Loricariichthys
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Spoonlip whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spoonlip whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.