Fin's Fish Guide
The Gill candiru (Paracanthopoma parva) is a freshwater fish of the family Trichomycteridae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The gill candiru is a very small pencil catfish (Trichomycteridae) from large rivers of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 3 cm and has a very slender, almost transparent body with small, backward-pointing spinelets on the gill cover. It lives briefly as a parasite in the gill cavity of larger fish, where it takes blood, and then swims free. To humans it is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gill candiru?
The Gill candiru has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Gill candiru live?
The Gill candiru lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil
How big does the Gill candiru get?
The Gill candiru grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Gill candiru dangerous to humans?
No, the Gill candiru 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Trichomycteridae
Want the complete picture on the Gill candiru?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gill candiru is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone