Fin's Fish Guide
The Toothed driftwood catfish (Auchenipterus dentatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The toothed driftwood catfish is a driftwood catfish (Auchenipteridae) from South America. The species has a scaleless body, large eyes and long barbels. It inhabits mainly the upper reaches of rivers, where it stays in the upper water layers. Nocturnally it hunts insects and small zooplankton; by day it shelters among driftwood and bank structure. The pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict painful puncture wounds when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Toothed driftwood catfish?
The Toothed driftwood catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large eyes and long barbels; nocturnal driftwood catfish with sharp fin spines.
Where does the Toothed driftwood catfish live?
The Toothed driftwood catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Northeastern South America; Guiana rivers.
How big does the Toothed driftwood catfish get?
The Toothed driftwood catfish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Toothed driftwood catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Toothed driftwood catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the sturdy, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict painful puncture wounds. Clean the wound thoroughly, disinfect and seek medical care for a deep wound or infection.
Is the Toothed driftwood catfish edible?
The Toothed driftwood catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Auchenipterus
More from the family Auchenipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Toothed driftwood catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Toothed driftwood catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.