The Venezuelan flannelmouth (Prochilodus mariae) is a freshwater fish of the family Prochilodontidae that grows up to 41 cm.
Description
The Venezuelan flannelmouth is a characin (Prochilodontidae) from large rivers of the Orinoco basin in South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a sturdy, silvery body with dark fins and a round, fleshy, protrusible sucker mouth full of small teeth. As a bottom-dweller it rasps algae, biofilm and detritus from the bottom; in the rainy season it migrates upstream in large schools to spawn. It is an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Venezuelan flannelmouth?
The Venezuelan flannelmouth has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Venezuelan flannelmouth live?
The Venezuelan flannelmouth lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Colombia, Venezuela
How big does the Venezuelan flannelmouth get?
The Venezuelan flannelmouth grows to a maximum of about 41 cm.
Is the Venezuelan flannelmouth dangerous to humans?
No, the Venezuelan flannelmouth 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.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Prochilodus
More from the family Prochilodontidae

Want the complete picture on the Venezuelan flannelmouth?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Venezuelan flannelmouth is one of 12,519 species in the app.