How to Identify Spotted Raphael Catfish

To identify Spotted Raphael Catfish (Agamyxis pectinifrons), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

rounded

Coloration

Dark brown to black body covered with numerous distinct white to yellowish spots of varying sizes. The fins are similarly patterned.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Robust, armored body covered in bony scutes with prominent spines along the lateral line., Three pairs of barbels around the mouth (one maxillary, two mandibular)., Adipose fin present., Ability to produce audible sounds (stridulation).

Dorsal fin

Short, with a strong, serrated spine and 6-7 soft rays.

Tail fin

Forked, with rounded lobes.

Pectoral fin

Strong, with a serrated spine and several soft rays. The pectoral spines are used for sound production.

Distinctive fins

Adipose fin is small and present.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Pattern

   The most distinguishing feature is the dark body covered in prominent white to yellowish spots. This pattern is consistent across the body and fins.

2. 2

   Armored Body

   Unlike many other catfish, Agamyxis pectinifrons possesses a series of bony plates (scutes) along its sides, giving it a distinctly armored appearance. These scutes have sharp spines, particularly along the lateral line.

3. 3

   Pectoral Spines

   The strong, serrated pectoral fin spines are a key characteristic of doradid catfishes and are used for defense and sound production.

4. 4

   Mouth and Barbels

   The mouth is inferior (downward-pointing), and there are three pairs of barbels, which are sensory organs used for foraging in low light conditions.

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