Fin's Fish Guide
The Tonala catfish (Rhamdia parryi) is a freshwater fish of the family Heptapteridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Tonala catfish is a freshwater catfish of the family Heptapteridae from the Pacific slope of southern Mexico (Chiapas and Oaxaca) to southern Guatemala. The species reaches about 30 cm and has an elongate, scaleless, brown-grey body with three pairs of long barbels with which it probes the bottom in the dark. It is a nocturnal omnivore that hunts insects, crustaceans and small fishes and also eats plant matter. In front of the pectoral and dorsal fins it bears sharp spines that can cause painful punctures when handled. The species inhabits rivers and streams and is eaten locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tonala catfish?
The Tonala catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Nocturnal catfish with long barbels and sharp fin spines that cause injuries when handled.
Where does the Tonala catfish live?
The Tonala catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Pacific slope from southern Mexico to southern Guatemala.
How big does the Tonala catfish get?
The Tonala catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Tonala catfish dangerous to humans?
The Tonala catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but the sharp pectoral and dorsal fin spines can cause painful punctures and cuts when handled carelessly. Hold the fish carefully and clean and disinfect any wound.
Is the Tonala catfish edible?
The Tonala catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhamdia
More from the family Heptapteridae
Want the complete picture on the Tonala catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tonala catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.