Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Notarius grandicassis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 63 cm.
Description
The Thomas sea catfish (Notarius grandicassis) is a sea catfish of the family Ariidae from coastal waters of eastern South America. The species has an elongate body with a broad, bony armoured head shield and barbels, and reaches about 63 cm. It lives on muddy bottoms of shallow brackish water and also in the sea. Reproduction occurs around May and June; the female lays 20 to 30 very large eggs (10-12 mm), glued together in mucus, which the male broods in its mouth. The dorsal and pectoral fins bear a serrated, venomous spine that can cause painful puncture wounds. The species is of limited local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Broad bony head shield; the male broods very large eggs in its mouth; venomous fin spines.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Muddy bottoms of brackish coastal water of eastern South America.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 63 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
The Catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. The serrated fin 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); seek medical help in case of severe pain or infection.
Is the Catfish edible?
The Catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Notarius
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.