Fin's Fish Guide
The Striped woodcat (Trachelyopterichthys taeniatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The striped woodcat is a driftwood catfish (Auchenipteridae) from fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 22 cm and has an elongate, dark body with a light longitudinal stripe, a flat head and barbels. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day in cavities and under driftwood and hunts insects and small invertebrates by night; fertilisation is internal. The stout, sharp pectoral spines can give a puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striped woodcat?
The Striped woodcat has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Striped woodcat live?
The Striped woodcat lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Venezuela
How big does the Striped woodcat get?
The Striped woodcat grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Striped woodcat dangerous to humans?
The Striped woodcat can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
Is the Striped woodcat edible?
Yes, the Striped woodcat is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Auchenipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Striped woodcat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Striped woodcat is one of 12,519 species in the app.