Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowtail whiptail catfish (Fonchiiichthys uracanthus) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The yellowtail whiptail catfish is a slender armoured catfish (Loricariidae) from clear, flowing rivers of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has an elongate, bony-plated body tapering into a thin tail, an inferior sucker mouth and often a yellow tail margin. As a bottom-dweller it clings to wood and stones and rasps algae and biofilm. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowtail whiptail catfish?
The Yellowtail whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Yellowtail whiptail catfish live?
The Yellowtail whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: Costa Rica, Panama
How big does the Yellowtail whiptail catfish get?
The Yellowtail whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Yellowtail whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowtail whiptail 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.
More photos
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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 Yellowtail whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowtail whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.