Fin's Fish Guide
The Nkunga eeltail catfish (Plotosus nkunga) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 51 cm.
Description
The Nkunga eeltail catfish is an eeltail catfish (Plotosidae) from coastal and reef water of the western Indian Ocean off southern Africa. 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 among reef for worms, crustaceans and molluscs; young form dense ball-shaped schools. The dorsal and pectoral spines are strongly venomous and can give a very painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Nkunga eeltail catfish?
The Nkunga eeltail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Nkunga eeltail catfish live?
The Nkunga eeltail catfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Mozambique, Viet Nam, South Africa
How big does the Nkunga eeltail catfish get?
The Nkunga eeltail catfish grows to a maximum of about 51 cm.
Is the Nkunga eeltail catfish dangerous to humans?
The Nkunga 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.
Is the Nkunga eeltail catfish edible?
Yes, the Nkunga eeltail 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 Plotosus
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Nkunga eeltail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Nkunga eeltail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.