Fin's Fish Guide
The Engraved sea catfish (Nemapteryx caelata) is a fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The engraved sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from turbid coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a sturdy, greyish, scaleless body with a grooved, 'engraved' nape shield, three pairs of barbels and an adipose fin. As a bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for worms, crustaceans and small fish; the male broods the large eggs in his mouth. The dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Engraved sea catfish?
The Engraved sea catfish is mainly silver-grey. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Engraved sea catfish live?
The Engraved sea catfish is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Engraved sea catfish get?
The Engraved sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Engraved sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Engraved sea 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
Same genus Nemapteryx
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Engraved sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Engraved sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.