Fin's Fish Guide
The White-spot bristlenose catfish (Ancistrus hoplogenys) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The white-spot bristlenose catfish is an armoured suckermouth catfish from South America, known from the Amazon, Essequibo and Paraguay basins. It grows to about 16 cm and has a dark body with numerous small white spots and the typical armour of bony plates. The mouth is modified into a sucker on the underside, with which the fish scrapes algae and growth from stones and wood. Adult males carry a bush of branched, tentacle-like growths on the snout. The fish lives on the bottom of flowing waters and can breathe air through its gut. It is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the White-spot bristlenose catfish?
The White-spot bristlenose catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a spots pattern. Sucker mouth for scraping algae; males with branched snout tentacles; can breathe through the intestine
Where does the White-spot bristlenose catfish live?
The White-spot bristlenose catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern and central South America
How big does the White-spot bristlenose catfish get?
The White-spot bristlenose catfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the White-spot bristlenose catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the White-spot bristlenose 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 White-spot bristlenose catfish edible?
The White-spot bristlenose catfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ancistrus
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the White-spot bristlenose catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the White-spot bristlenose catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.