Fin's Fish Guide
The Twig catfish (Farlowella acus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The twig catfish is a remarkably slender armoured catfish from fresh water of northern South America, including the Orinoco basin. The species grows to about 16 cm and has an extremely long, thin, brown body with a long, pointed snout, making it look strikingly like a twig or stick. With its sucker mouth it scrapes algae and aufwuchs from wood, stones and plants. Through this camouflage it escapes predators. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Twig catfish?
The Twig catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Extremely slender, twig-shaped body with a pointed snout; algae-scraping camouflage catfish
Where does the Twig catfish live?
The Twig catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern South America
How big does the Twig catfish get?
The Twig catfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Twig catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Twig catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Twig catfish edible?
The Twig catfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Farlowella
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Twig catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Twig catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.