Fin's Fish Guide
The Stuebel's thorny catfish (Opsodoras stuebelii) is a fish of the family Doradidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Stuebel's thorny catfish is a thorny or talking catfish (Doradidae) from fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, brownish body with a row of stout, thorny bony plates along the flank and powerful, serrated pectoral spines; by rubbing these against the shoulder girdle it can make a grunting sound. As a bottom-dweller it searches for molluscs, insect larvae and detritus. The sharp spines and thorny plates can inflict a wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Stuebel's thorny catfish?
The Stuebel's thorny catfish is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Stuebel's thorny catfish live?
The Stuebel's thorny catfish is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Stuebel's thorny catfish get?
The Stuebel's thorny catfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Stuebel's thorny catfish dangerous to humans?
The Stuebel's thorny catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine or bony plate: 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Opsodoras
More from the family Doradidae
Want the complete picture on the Stuebel's thorny catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Stuebel's thorny catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.