Fin's Fish Guide
The Whiptail catfish (Loricaria parnahybae) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
Loricaria parnahybae is an armoured suckermouth catfish (family Loricariidae) of north-eastern Brazil. The species reaches about 16 cm and has an elongate, flattened body tapering into a thin whip-like tail and covered with bony plates. With its sucker-like lower mouth it scrapes growth from the bottom and anchors against the current. It lives on sandy bottoms of rivers in the Parnaiba drainage and feeds on algae, aufwuchs and detritus. The species is harmless to humans and, because of its small size, of no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whiptail catfish?
The Whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Armoured suckermouth catfish with an elongate body and whip-like tail; lives on sandy bottoms.
Where does the Whiptail catfish live?
The Whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeastern Brazil, on sandy bottoms of rivers in the Parnaiba basin.
How big does the Whiptail catfish get?
The Whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Whiptail catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Whiptail catfish edible?
The Whiptail catfish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Whiptail catfish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Loricaria
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.