Fin's Fish Guide
The Lung-bladder sea catfish (Aspistor luniscutis) is a fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The Lung-bladder sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from turbid coastal and estuarine water of the western Atlantic off Brazil. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a sturdy, greyish, scaleless body with three pairs of barbels and an adipose fin. As a bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for worms, crustaceans, molluscs 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 Lung-bladder sea catfish?
The Lung-bladder sea catfish is mainly silver-grey. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Lung-bladder sea catfish live?
The Lung-bladder sea catfish is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Lung-bladder sea catfish get?
The Lung-bladder sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Lung-bladder sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Lung-bladder 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 Aspistor
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Lung-bladder sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lung-bladder sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.