Fin's Fish Guide
The Thicklip suckermouth catfish (Atopochilus pachychilus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Thicklip suckermouth catfish is a suckermouth catfish (Mochokidae) from fast-flowing, clear fresh water of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a flattened body with a large, sucking lower lip with which it clings to rocks in strong current and rasps off algae, with fringed barbels. As a bottom-dweller it lives in oxygen-rich mountain rivers. The stout pectoral and dorsal spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Thicklip suckermouth catfish?
The Thicklip suckermouth catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Thicklip suckermouth catfish live?
The Thicklip suckermouth catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Congo Dem Rp
How big does the Thicklip suckermouth catfish get?
The Thicklip suckermouth catfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Thicklip suckermouth catfish dangerous to humans?
The Thicklip suckermouth catfish 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Atopochilus
More from the family Mochokidae
Want the complete picture on the Thicklip suckermouth catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Thicklip suckermouth catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.