Fin's Fish Guide
The Madagascar sea catfish (Arius madagascariensis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Ariidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The Madagascar sea catfish is a sea catfish from coastal and estuarine water around Madagascar. The species grows to about 70 cm and has a streamlined, greyish body, three pairs of barbels and strong, serrated spines on the dorsal and pectoral fins that are linked to venom and can inflict painful puncture wounds. As a bottom-dweller it searches turbid water for crustaceans, molluscs and small fish. Males brood the eggs in the mouth. It is a local food fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Madagascar sea catfish?
The Madagascar sea catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Venomous serrated fin spines; the male broods the eggs in its mouth
Where does the Madagascar sea catfish live?
The Madagascar sea catfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Madagascar
How big does the Madagascar sea catfish get?
The Madagascar sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Madagascar sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Madagascar sea catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. If pricked by a fin spine: immerse the wound in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes, clean it thoroughly and seek medical help; puncture wounds infect easily.
Is the Madagascar sea catfish edible?
Yes, the Madagascar sea catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Arius
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Madagascar sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Madagascar sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.