Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted pencil catfish (Henonemus punctatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Trichomycteridae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The spotted pencil catfish is a pencil catfish (Trichomycteridae) from fresh water of river basins in South America. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, elongate, pale-brown body with fine dark spots, small barbels and spinelets on the gill cover. As a bottom-dweller it wriggles among sand, gravel and roots and snaps at small invertebrates and organic matter. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted pencil catfish?
The Spotted pencil catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Spotted pencil catfish live?
The Spotted pencil catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Ecuador, Peru
How big does the Spotted pencil catfish get?
The Spotted pencil catfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Spotted pencil catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted pencil 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
More from the family Trichomycteridae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted pencil catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted pencil catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.