Striped Eel Catfish

Plotosus lineatus, or the Striped Eel Catfish, is a distinctive species of eeltail catfish belonging to the family Plotosidae. This fish can grow up to 35.2 cm (around 14 inches), though more commonly reaches about 25 cm (10 inches). Its body features a brown color with cream or white stripes running longitudinally.

This species is predominantly found in tropical marine environments, although it can also inhabit brackish waters and is associated with coral reefs. It is the only catfish that can be found in these reefs. P. lineatus resides at depths ranging from 1 to 60 meters (3 to 197 feet) and is amphidromous, meaning it can move between saltwater and freshwater throughout different life stages. Notably, the Striped Eel Catfish is venomous. It possesses a serrated spine at the start of its dorsal and pectoral fins, which can be dangerous, potentially even fatal.

The fish has a unique morphology, with dorsal and anal fins that continue with the caudal fin, giving it an eel-like appearance. It also has four pairs of barbels around its mouth and lacks anal spines. Juvenile Striped Eel Catfish are known to form dense schools of about 100, while adults typically are more solitary or form smaller groups of up to 20 individuals. They often hide under ledges during the day and search for food such as crustaceans, molluscs, and worms.

Plotosus lineatus reproduces by laying eggs, with males constructing nests and protecting the eggs after the female departs. Originally found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the 🌊 Red Sea, East Africa, southern 🇯🇵 Japan, and 🇦🇺 Australia, the Striped Eel Catfish has been identified as an invasive species in Europe since 2019. Consequently, its import and release in these areas are prohibited to prevent ecological disruption.

The species is of commercial interest, both for fisheries and aquariums. In some rare instances, it enters freshwater systems in East Africa and 🇲🇬 Madagascar. Discovered in the Mediterranean, its presence is monitored due to its potential impact as an invasive species.

The name "Plotosus" comes from the Greek word "plotos," meaning swimming, referring to the species' adept swimming capabilities.