Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortfin catfish (Neosilurus brevidorsalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The shortfin tandan is an eeltail catfish from northern Australia and central-southern New Guinea. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate body in which the dorsal, caudal and anal fins are fused into a continuous fin margin, characteristic of the eeltail catfishes; barbels surround the mouth. It lives on the bottom of warm, clear, flowing streams, lagoons and swamps and eats insects, prawns, molluscs and small crayfish. The pectoral and dorsal fin spines are venomous and serrated and can give a very painful sting. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortfin catfish?
The Shortfin catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dorsal, caudal and anal fin fused into a continuous margin; venomous serrated fin spines
Where does the Shortfin catfish live?
The Shortfin catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Australia and New Guinea
How big does the Shortfin catfish get?
The Shortfin catfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Shortfin catfish dangerous to humans?
The Shortfin catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. After a fin-spine sting, immerse the affected part in hot water (about 45 degrees) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom; clean the wound, check for retained spine fragments and seek medical help for severe pain or swelling.
Is the Shortfin catfish edible?
The Shortfin catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neosilurus
More from the family Plotosidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortfin catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortfin catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.