Fin's Fish Guide
The Sagor sea catfish (Hexanematichthys sagor) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ariidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Asia: Bangladesh, Brunei Darsm, Myanmar, Cambodia, China, India and others
Description
The sagor sea catfish is a sea catfish (Ariidae) from coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a streamlined, greyish body with a broad head and three pairs of barbels. The pectoral and dorsal fins each carry a stout, serrated spine linked to venom. As a bottom-oriented omnivore it searches sand and mud bottoms of river mouths for invertebrates, small fish and plant material; the male broods the eggs in its mouth. A sting is very painful; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sagor sea catfish?
The Sagor sea catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Sagor sea catfish live?
The Sagor sea catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Bangladesh, Brunei Darsm, Myanmar, Cambodia, China, India and others
How big does the Sagor sea catfish get?
The Sagor sea catfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Sagor sea catfish dangerous to humans?
The Sagor sea catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not touch or pick up; the fin spines carry venom. For a sting: immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C, not scalding) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom. For severe pain, swelling or breathing difficulty seek medical help and check tetanus status.
Is the Sagor sea catfish edible?
Yes, the Sagor sea catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Ariidae
Want the complete picture on the Sagor sea catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sagor sea catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.