Fin's Fish Guide
The Bearded waspfish (Tetraroge barbata) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Tetrarogidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Asia: Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., New Caledonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea and others
Description
The bearded waspfish is a waspfish (Tetrarogidae) from shallow coastal, estuarine and even fresh water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, laterally compressed, brown-marbled body with a dorsal fin starting high on the head and skin flaps and beard-like fringes that camouflage it among leaf litter and weed. As a motionless ambush predator it snaps at small crustaceans and small fish. The dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bearded waspfish?
The Bearded waspfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Bearded waspfish live?
The Bearded waspfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., New Caledonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea and others
How big does the Bearded waspfish get?
The Bearded waspfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Bearded waspfish dangerous to humans?
The Bearded waspfish 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Tetrarogidae
Want the complete picture on the Bearded waspfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bearded waspfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.