Fin's Fish Guide
The Cooper Creek catfish (Neosiluroides cooperensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Description
The Cooper Creek catfish is an eeltail catfish (Plotosidae) from fresh and estuarine water of Australia. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, scaleless body with an eel-like fin merging into the tail and barbels around the mouth. As a bottom-oriented fish it searches over sand and mud for worms, crustaceans and small fish. The dorsal and pectoral spines are strongly venomous and can give a very painful sting.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cooper Creek catfish?
The Cooper Creek catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Cooper Creek catfish live?
The Cooper Creek catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Cooper Creek catfish get?
The Cooper Creek catfish grows to a maximum of about 46 cm. On average the species is around 23 cm.
Is the Cooper Creek catfish dangerous to humans?
The Cooper Creek catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Cooper Creek catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cooper Creek catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.