Fin's Fish Guide
The Whale catfish (Cetopsis gobioides) is a freshwater fish of the family Cetopsidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The whale catfish is a small whale catfish from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a stocky, scaleless, smooth body with a blunt head, small eyes and short barbels. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lives in rivers and feeds on small invertebrates and carrion; related species are known as scavengers that bore into carcasses. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whale catfish?
The Whale catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Smooth scaleless body with a blunt head; nocturnal scavenger
Where does the Whale catfish live?
The Whale catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Whale catfish get?
The Whale catfish grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Whale catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Whale 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 Whale catfish edible?
The Whale 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 Cetopsis
More from the family Cetopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Whale catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whale catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.