Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortbody peat catfish (Encheloclarias curtisoma) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The shortbody peat catfish is a small walking catfish (Clariidae) from acidic peat swamps of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, dark, scaleless body with barbels and an air-breathing organ with which it survives in oxygen-poor, tea-coloured water. As a bottom-dweller it searches leaf litter for worms, insect larvae and detritus. Through loss of peat swamps the species is threatened. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortbody peat catfish?
The Shortbody peat catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Shortbody peat catfish live?
The Shortbody peat catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Malaysia
How big does the Shortbody peat catfish get?
The Shortbody peat catfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Shortbody peat catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortbody peat catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Encheloclarias
More from the family Clariidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortbody peat catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortbody peat catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.