Fin's Fish Guide
The Van Someren's suckermouth catfish (Chiloglanis somereni) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Van Someren's suckermouth catfish is a suckermouth squeaker (Mochokidae) from fast-flowing, clear fresh water of East Africa. The species grows to about 6 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, and short barbels. As a bottom-dweller it lives among stones and gravel of oxygen-rich mountain streams. The pectoral and dorsal spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Van Someren's suckermouth catfish?
The Van Someren's 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 Van Someren's suckermouth catfish live?
The Van Someren's suckermouth catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Kenya, Tanzania
How big does the Van Someren's suckermouth catfish get?
The Van Someren's suckermouth catfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Van Someren's suckermouth catfish dangerous to humans?
The Van Someren's 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 Chiloglanis
More from the family Mochokidae
Want the complete picture on the Van Someren's suckermouth catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Van Someren's suckermouth catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.