Fin's Fish Guide
The Barbel-eel catfish (Plotosus lineatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Widespread in the Indian and western Pacific Ocean, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Japan and Australia; coral and rocky reefs and estuaries.
Description
The striped eel catfish (Plotosus lineatus) is the only catfish of the coral reef, occurring in the Indian and western Pacific Oceans from the Red Sea to Australia and Japan. It reaches about 30 cm and has a brown body with two white lengthwise stripes and barbels around the mouth. Juveniles form conspicuous, dense ball-shaped schools above the bottom. The fish feeds on small crustaceans, molluscs, worms and small fishes. Importantly, the dorsal and pectoral fin spines carry a potent, sometimes lethal venom, making the species dangerous to handle.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barbel-eel catfish?
The Barbel-eel catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. The only catfish of the coral reef; young animals form dense, ball-shaped shoals. The fin spines carry a powerful, sometimes lethal venom - the most dangerous feature of the species.
Where does the Barbel-eel catfish live?
The Barbel-eel catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Widespread in the Indian and western Pacific Ocean, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Japan and Australia; coral and rocky reefs and estuaries.
How big does the Barbel-eel catfish get?
The Barbel-eel catfish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Barbel-eel catfish dangerous to humans?
The Barbel-eel catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The dorsal and pectoral fin spines carry a potent venom; a sting is very painful and can be serious. Immerse the wound in hot water (around 45 C) as long as tolerable, remove any visible spine fragments and seek medical attention.
Is the Barbel-eel catfish edible?
The Barbel-eel catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Plotosus
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Barbel-eel catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barbel-eel catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.