Fin's Fish Guide
The Maya sea catfish (Ariopsis assimilis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The Mayan sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has a scaleless, greyish body with barbels around the mouth and sturdy, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines. It lives bottom-bound in coastal waters, estuaries and lagoons. As an omnivore it forages for crustaceans, molluscs, worms and small fishes. The male broods the relatively large eggs in his mouth. The fin spines carry venom and cause intense pain when stung.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Maya sea catfish?
The Maya sea catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. The male is a mouthbrooder of large eggs; sea catfish with venomous, serrated fin spines.
Where does the Maya sea catfish live?
The Maya sea catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; coastal waters, estuaries and lagoons.
How big does the Maya sea catfish get?
The Maya sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Maya sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Maya sea catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. The fin spines carry venom; a sting causes intense, burning pain and swelling. Immerse the wound in hot water (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove spine fragments and seek medical care.
Is the Maya sea catfish edible?
Yes, the Maya sea 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 Ariopsis
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Maya sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Maya sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.