Fin's Fish Guide
The Cominate sea catfish (Occidentarius platypogon) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The cominate sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has an elongate, scaleless, greyish body with an adipose fin and barbels. It is common on the continental shelf over soft bottoms. Like other sea catfishes the male broods the eggs in his mouth. Probing the bottom, it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, worms and small fishes. The stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines carry venom; a sting is very painful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cominate sea catfish?
The Cominate sea catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. The male is a mouthbrooder; sturdy fin spines carry venom and give a painful sting.
Where does the Cominate sea catfish live?
The Cominate sea catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; soft bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Cominate sea catfish get?
The Cominate sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Cominate sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Cominate sea catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. If stung by a fin spine: immerse the affected part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 degrees C) to break down the venom, and seek medical care for severe or persistent symptoms.
Is the Cominate sea catfish edible?
The Cominate sea catfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Cominate sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cominate sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.