Fin's Fish Guide
The Cat fish (Bagre marinus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 69 cm.
Description
The gafftopsail sea catfish (Bagre marinus) is a sea catfish of the family Ariidae from the western Atlantic. The species has an elongate, greyish body with long, thread-like extensions on the dorsal and pectoral fins and reaches about 69 cm. It is mainly marine but enters brackish estuaries. It is an opportunistic feeder over mud and sandy bottoms, feeding mainly on small fishes and invertebrates. The dorsal and pectoral fins bear a serrated, erectile and venomous spine. The fish is often caught by anglers and the flesh is valued; males brood the eggs in the mouth.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cat fish?
The Cat fish has an elongate, eel-like body. Venomous, serrated spines in the dorsal and pectoral fin; long thread-like fin extensions; the male is a mouthbrooder.
Where does the Cat fish live?
The Cat fish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Coastal waters and estuaries of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Cat fish get?
The Cat fish grows to a maximum of about 69 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Cat fish dangerous to humans?
The Cat fish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The serrated dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can cause painful puncture wounds. Rinse the wound, remove any remaining material and immerse it for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 °C) to break down the venom; seek medical help in case of severe pain, infection or a retained spine tip.
Is the Cat fish edible?
Yes, the Cat fish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bagre
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Cat fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cat fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.