Fin's Fish Guide
The Broadsnout sea catfish (Neoarius latirostris) is a fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The broadsnout sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from coastal, brackish and fresh water of New Guinea and northern Australia. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a streamlined, greyish body with a broad, flattened head and three pairs of barbels. The pectoral and dorsal fins each carry a stout, serrated spine linked to venom. As a bottom-oriented omnivore it searches sand and mud bottoms of river mouths for invertebrates, small fish and plant material; the male broods the eggs in its mouth. A sting is very painful; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broadsnout sea catfish?
The Broadsnout sea catfish is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Serrated venomous spines in the pectoral and dorsal fin; mouthbrooding sea catfish
Where does the Broadsnout sea catfish live?
The Broadsnout sea catfish is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. New Guinea and northern Australia
How big does the Broadsnout sea catfish get?
The Broadsnout sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Broadsnout sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Broadsnout sea catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The pectoral and dorsal spines carry venom. Do not grip the fish by the fins. For a sting: immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C, not scalding) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, and check for spine fragments. Because of severe pain and infection risk always have it assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Broadsnout sea catfish edible?
Yes, the Broadsnout sea catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neoarius
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Broadsnout sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broadsnout sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.