Fin's Fish Guide
The Sumatran eel-catfish (Breitensteinia insignis) is a freshwater fish of the family Akysidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The Sumatran eel-catfish is a stream catfish (Akysidae) from slow-flowing, soft fresh water of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 12 cm and has an elongate, flattened, scaleless body with a broad head, small eyes and fringed barbels, and a rough skin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters in sand, leaf litter and among roots and snaps at insect larvae and small invertebrates. The pectoral spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sumatran eel-catfish?
The Sumatran eel-catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Sumatran eel-catfish live?
The Sumatran eel-catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia
How big does the Sumatran eel-catfish get?
The Sumatran eel-catfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Sumatran eel-catfish dangerous to humans?
The Sumatran eel-catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Akysidae
Want the complete picture on the Sumatran eel-catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sumatran eel-catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.