Fin's Fish Guide
The Berney's catfish (Neoarius berneyi) is a freshwater fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
Berney's catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from fresh, brackish and coastal water of northern Australia and New Guinea. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a stocky, grey-brown body with barbels at the mouth and an adipose fin; the male broods the eggs in his mouth. As a bottom-dweller it searches rivers and estuaries for crustaceans, molluscs, insects and small fish. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Berney's catfish?
The Berney's catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Berney's catfish live?
The Berney's catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Papua New Guinea
How big does the Berney's catfish get?
The Berney's catfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Berney's catfish dangerous to humans?
The Berney's 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neoarius
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Berney's catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Berney's catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.