Fin's Fish Guide
The Eel-tailed catfish (Tandanus tandanus) is a freshwater fish of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Description
The eel-tailed catfish, also called dewfish, is a catfish (Plotosidae) from fresh water of eastern Australia. The species grows to about 90 cm and has a stocky forebody with barbels that merges into an elongate, eel-like rear body, where the dorsal, tail and anal fins fuse into a continuous margin. As a bottom-dweller it searches rivers and lakes for crustaceans, molluscs, insects and small fish; the male guards a gravel nest. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a very painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eel-tailed catfish?
The Eel-tailed catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Eel-tailed catfish live?
The Eel-tailed catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Eel-tailed catfish get?
The Eel-tailed catfish grows to a maximum of about 90 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Eel-tailed catfish dangerous to humans?
The Eel-tailed 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 Eel-tailed catfish edible?
Yes, the Eel-tailed catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tandanus
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Eel-tailed catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eel-tailed catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.