Fin's Fish Guide
The Nakedhead eeltail catfish (Euristhmus nudiceps) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Description
The nakedhead eeltail catfish is an eeltail catfish (Plotosidae) from turbid coastal and estuarine water of northern Australia. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an eel-like, dark body in which the second dorsal, tail and anal fins are fused into a long border, with barbels around the mouth. As a bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for worms, crustaceans and molluscs. The dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Nakedhead eeltail catfish?
The Nakedhead eeltail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Nakedhead eeltail catfish live?
The Nakedhead eeltail catfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Cambodia, Papua New Guinea
How big does the Nakedhead eeltail catfish get?
The Nakedhead eeltail catfish grows to a maximum of about 33 cm.
Is the Nakedhead eeltail catfish dangerous to humans?
The Nakedhead eeltail 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 Euristhmus
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Nakedhead eeltail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Nakedhead eeltail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.