Fin's Fish Guide
The Papuan eeltail catfish (Plotosus papuensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The Papuan eeltail catfish is an eeltail catfish (Plotosidae) from estuaries, river mouths and coastal water around New Guinea in the western Pacific. The species grows to about 35 cm and has an elongate, scaleless, dark body with an eel-like fin merging into the tail and barbels around the mouth. Young form dense 'ball schools'. As a bottom-oriented fish it searches for worms, crustaceans and small fish. The dorsal and pectoral spines are strongly venomous and can give a very painful sting.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Papuan eeltail catfish?
The Papuan eeltail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Papuan eeltail catfish live?
The Papuan eeltail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia, Papua New Guinea
How big does the Papuan eeltail catfish get?
The Papuan eeltail catfish grows to a maximum of about 55 cm.
Is the Papuan eeltail catfish dangerous to humans?
The Papuan 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 Plotosus
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Papuan eeltail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Papuan eeltail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.