Fin's Fish Guide
The African sea catfish (Arius africanus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The African sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from turbid coastal and estuarine water of the coast of West Africa. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a sturdy, greyish, scaleless body with three pairs of barbels and an adipose fin. As a bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for worms, crustaceans, molluscs and small fish; the male broods the large eggs in his mouth. The dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African sea catfish?
The African sea catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the African sea catfish live?
The African sea catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania
How big does the African sea catfish get?
The African sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the African sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The African sea catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
Is the African sea catfish edible?
Yes, the African sea catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Arius
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the African sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.