Fin's Fish Guide
The Southern velvet catfish (Olivaichthys mesembrinus) is a freshwater fish of the family Diplomystidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The southern velvet catfish is a primitive catfish (Diplomystidae) from cold, clear mountain rivers and streams of southern South America. The species grows to about 25 cm and has an elongate, scaleless, grey-brown body with one pair of barbels and stout spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins. As a bottom-dweller it searches over gravel and stones for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. The fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern velvet catfish?
The Southern velvet catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Southern velvet catfish live?
The Southern velvet catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. South America: Argentina
How big does the Southern velvet catfish get?
The Southern velvet catfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Southern velvet catfish dangerous to humans?
The Southern velvet catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a puncture or cut from a fin spine: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and remove any visible fragments. Cover and keep clean. For a deep wound, a retained spine or signs of infection see a doctor and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Diplomystidae
Want the complete picture on the Southern velvet catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern velvet catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.