Fin's Fish Guide
The Midgley's catfish (Neoarius midgleyi) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 140 cm.
Description
Midgley's catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from rivers and estuaries of northern Australia and New Guinea. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a sturdy, greyish, scaleless body with a bony nape plate, barbels around the mouth and an adipose fin. As a bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for worms, crustaceans 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 Midgley's catfish?
The Midgley's catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Midgley's catfish live?
The Midgley's catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Midgley's catfish get?
The Midgley's catfish grows to a maximum of about 140 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Midgley's catfish dangerous to humans?
The Midgley's 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 visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C). The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neoarius
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Midgley's catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Midgley's catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.