Fin's Fish Guide
The Butler's eeltail catfish (Paraplotosus butleri) is a saltwater fish of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Description
Butler's eeltail catfish is an eeltail catfish (Plotosidae) from coastal waters of northern Australia and New Guinea. The species grows to about 33 cm and has an elongate, dark body with a long anal and dorsal fin joined to the tail and four pairs of barbels. The pectoral and dorsal spines are linked to powerful venom glands; a sting is very painful and dangerous. As a bottom-dweller it searches around reefs and on sand and mud bottoms for invertebrates and small fish. Do not touch; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butler's eeltail catfish?
The Butler's eeltail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Butler's eeltail catfish live?
The Butler's eeltail catfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Butler's eeltail catfish get?
The Butler's eeltail catfish grows to a maximum of about 33 cm.
Is the Butler's eeltail catfish dangerous to humans?
The Butler's eeltail catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not touch or pick up; the fin spines carry venom. 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. For severe pain, swelling or breathing difficulty seek medical help and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paraplotosus
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Butler's eeltail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butler's eeltail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.