Latin name

Arius venosus

Other name

Marine catfish

Identification

The species was described in 1840 by Achille Valenciennes.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 1; Anal spines: 0.

Fish colouring

The body of this fish is silvery gray.

Distribution

Occupies the Indo-West Pacific, including the Mozambique Strait, Myanmar, Indonesia and southern China. 

Habitat

Tropical marine benthic species. Live in tropical marine and brackish waters at depths of 20 to 50 m (66 to 164 ft). 

Size

The maximum overall length is 30 cm (12 inches), but more commonly reaches 19 cm (7.5 inches).

Behavior

Swims in shallow coastal waters and sometimes in estuaries. May enter freshwater in some countries.

Food and feeding habits

Diet includes fish and bottom-dwelling crustaceans.

Reproduction

They carry the eggs in their mouths. Juveniles continue to hide in males' mouths for the first 2 months. 

Fishing

Of commercial interest for fishing. Fished mainly with bamboo traps and sack nets. 

Relationship with a person

This fish is usually sold fresh.