Fin's Fish Guide
The Whiptail armoured catfish (Metaloricaria paucidens) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
The whiptail armoured catfish is a South American armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae from the Guianas. The species grows to about 27 cm and has an elongate, flattened body armoured with rows of bony plates and a downward-facing suckermouth. It is not very common and occurs in zones with rapids and strong illumination, where it clings to stones. With its rasping suckermouth it scrapes algae, growth and detritus from the substrate. Armoured catfishes are usually nocturnal. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whiptail armoured catfish?
The Whiptail armoured catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Armoured with bony plates; attaches itself to stones in rapids with its sucker mouth.
Where does the Whiptail armoured catfish live?
The Whiptail armoured catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; rapids of rivers in the Guianas.
How big does the Whiptail armoured catfish get?
The Whiptail armoured catfish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Whiptail armoured catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Whiptail armoured catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Whiptail armoured catfish edible?
The Whiptail armoured catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Whiptail armoured catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whiptail armoured catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.