Fin's Fish Guide
The Tenbarbed banjo (Aspredinichthys tibicen) is a brackish-water fish of the family Aspredinidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Northeast coast of South America; brackish muddy and sandy bottoms of estuaries and coastal waters.
Description
The tenspine banjo catfish is a South American catfish of the banjo catfish family (Aspredinidae) from the north-eastern coast of South America. The species grows to about 24 cm and has a strongly flattened front and a long, thin tail, together shaped like a banjo, with a rough skin. It lives mainly in brackish water on soft mud and sand bottoms of estuaries and coastal waters. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small invertebrates, worms and detritus. In banjo catfishes the female carries the fertilised eggs attached to her belly. The fin spines can prick, so handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tenbarbed banjo?
The Tenbarbed banjo has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Banjo-shaped body; the female carries the eggs attached to her belly, with stinging fin spines.
Where does the Tenbarbed banjo live?
The Tenbarbed banjo lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast coast of South America; brackish muddy and sandy bottoms of estuaries and coastal waters.
How big does the Tenbarbed banjo get?
The Tenbarbed banjo grows to a maximum of about 24 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Tenbarbed banjo dangerous to humans?
No, the Tenbarbed banjo 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 Tenbarbed banjo edible?
The Tenbarbed banjo is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aspredinichthys
More from the family Aspredinidae
Want the complete picture on the Tenbarbed banjo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tenbarbed banjo is one of 12,519 species in the app.