Fin's Fish Guide
The Darkfin eeltail catfish (Plotosus limbatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Africa: Sri Lanka, India, Kenya, Mauritius, Oman, Seychelles and others
Description
The Darkfin eeltail catfish is an eeltail catfish (Plotosidae) from coastal and reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an eel-like, dark body in which the second dorsal, tail and anal fins are fused into a long border, with barbels around the mouth. As a bottom-dweller it searches over sand and among reef for worms, crustaceans and molluscs; young form dense ball-shaped schools. The dorsal and pectoral spines are strongly venomous and can give a very painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Darkfin eeltail catfish?
The Darkfin eeltail catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Darkfin eeltail catfish live?
The Darkfin eeltail catfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Sri Lanka, India, Kenya, Mauritius, Oman, Seychelles and others
How big does the Darkfin eeltail catfish get?
The Darkfin eeltail catfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Darkfin eeltail catfish dangerous to humans?
The Darkfin eeltail 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.
Is the Darkfin eeltail catfish edible?
Yes, the Darkfin eeltail catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Plotosus
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Darkfin eeltail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Darkfin eeltail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.