Fin's Fish Guide
The Marine catfish (Genidens barbus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The white sea catfish is a large sea catfish from coastal and estuarine water of southeastern South America. The species grows to about 120 cm and has a streamlined, greyish body with 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 commercial food fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marine catfish?
The Marine 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 Marine catfish live?
The Marine catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern South America
How big does the Marine catfish get?
The Marine catfish grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the Marine catfish dangerous to humans?
The Marine 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 Marine catfish edible?
Yes, the Marine 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 Genidens
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Marine catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marine catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.