Striped eel catfish (Plotosus lineatus) is a saltwater, brackish species recorded in Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia. It is mainly found over reef, coral, sand, estuary, at depths of 1–60 m.
Scientific name: Plotosus lineatus · Water: Saltwater, Brackish
Size: up to 35.2 cm
The striped eel catfish, 沙毛 in Taiwan, is a common benthic plotosid of the coast and estuaries; adults are solitary while juveniles form dense balls. Its dorsal and pectoral spines carry venom glands, so unhooking demands care. Taiwanese anglers meet it on bottom rigs from embankments, harbours and river mouths.
It is the only catfish found on coral reefs, living on the bottom of coastal waters and turning up in estuaries, tide pools and along open coasts. Juveniles gather in tight ball-shaped shoals that can number about a hundred fish, while adults are solitary or run in groups of around twenty and hide under ledges by day. Adults work the sand constantly for crustaceans, molluscs and worms, and sometimes take fish. After spawning the male stays behind, building a nest under rocks or debris and guarding the eggs while the female leaves.
Caution: has venomous spines. Take great care when unhooking and handling; the sting is extremely painful.
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