Fin's Fish Guide
The Red sea catfish (Bagre pinnimaculatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Ariidae that grows up to 95 cm.
North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and others
Description
The red sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from coastal and estuarine water of the eastern Pacific, from Mexico to Peru. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a stocky, grey-brown body with long, thread-like barbels at the mouth and an adipose fin. As a bottom-dweller it searches turbid water for crustaceans, molluscs and small fish; the male broods the eggs in his mouth. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red sea catfish?
The Red sea catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Red sea catfish live?
The Red sea catfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and others
How big does the Red sea catfish get?
The Red sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 95 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Red sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Red sea 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 Red sea catfish edible?
Yes, the Red sea catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bagre
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Red sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.