How to Identify Fork-tailed Catfish

To identify Fork-tailed Catfish (Neoarius graeffei), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically dark grey to olive-brown, fading to silvery-white on the ventral side. Fins are generally dusky. Juveniles may have a more mottled appearance.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deeply forked caudal fin, Two pairs of barbels (maxillary and mental), Adipose fin present, Strong, serrated spines on dorsal and pectoral fins

Dorsal fin

One short-based dorsal fin with a strong, serrated spine and 7 soft rays, followed by a small adipose fin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

One pectoral fin on each side, each with a strong, serrated spine and 10-12 soft rays.

Distinctive fins

The presence of an adipose fin and the deeply forked caudal fin are key distinguishing features among freshwater catfish.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Caudal Fin

   Look for the very distinct, deeply forked tail fin, which is a primary identifier for this species within its genus and region.

2. 2

   Barbels

   Observe the two pairs of barbels around the mouth. The maxillary barbels are typically longer, extending beyond the eye.

3. 3

   Adipose Fin

   Note the presence of a small, fleshy adipose fin between the dorsal and caudal fins, a characteristic of ariid catfishes.

4. 4

   Dorsal and Pectoral Spines

   Identify the strong, serrated spines at the leading edge of the dorsal and pectoral fins. These are venomous and should be handled with extreme caution.

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