Fin's Fish Guide
The Kessler's sea catfish (Notarius kessleri) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The Kessler's sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from coastal and estuarine water of the eastern Pacific, from Mexico to Peru. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a stocky, grey-brown body with barbels at the mouth and an adipose fin; the male broods the eggs in his mouth. As a bottom-dweller it searches turbid water for crustaceans, molluscs and small fish. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Kessler's sea catfish?
The Kessler's sea catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Kessler's sea catfish live?
The Kessler's sea catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama
How big does the Kessler's sea catfish get?
The Kessler's sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Kessler's sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Kessler's 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.
Is the Kessler's sea catfish edible?
Yes, the Kessler's sea catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Kessler's sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Kessler's sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Notarius
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Kessler's sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Kessler's sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.