Fin's Fish Guide
The Aguadulce sea catfish (Cathorops aguadulce) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Western Atlantic coast of Central America; rivers, lagoons and drainages.
Description
The freshwater sea catfish is a catfish of the sea catfish family (Ariidae) from the western Atlantic coast of Central America. The species grows to about 23 cm and has a streamlined, greyish body with barbels around the mouth. It occurs in large to medium rivers, lagoons and small drainages, usually in fresh water but also in brackish water. As a bottom dweller it feeds on small invertebrates, worms and detritus. The male broods the relatively large eggs in its mouth. The stout pectoral and dorsal spines are venomous and give a severe, burning puncture wound; therefore handle the fish with great care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Aguadulce sea catfish?
The Aguadulce sea catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Venomous pectoral and dorsal fin spines; the male broods the large eggs in its mouth.
Where does the Aguadulce sea catfish live?
The Aguadulce sea catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic coast of Central America; rivers, lagoons and drainages.
How big does the Aguadulce sea catfish get?
The Aguadulce sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Aguadulce sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Aguadulce sea catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. The pectoral and dorsal spines are venomous and give a severe, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Aguadulce sea catfish edible?
The Aguadulce sea catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cathorops
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Aguadulce sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Aguadulce sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.