How to Identify Eel-tailed catfish

To identify Eel-tailed catfish (Tandanus tandanus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

eel-like

Coloration

Variable, typically dark olive-green to brown on the dorsal surface, fading to lighter grey or cream on the ventral side. Often mottled or blotched with darker markings. Juveniles may have more distinct patterns.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Four pairs of barbels around the mouth (one nasal, one maxillary, two mandibular), Robust, elongated body tapering to an eel-like tail, Small eyes, Broad, flattened head, Adipose fin absent

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is short and spiny, the second is long and confluent with the caudal fin.

Tail fin

Eel-like, rounded, and confluent with the second dorsal and anal fins.

Pectoral fin

Strong, with a serrated spine at the leading edge.

Distinctive fins

The second dorsal fin, caudal fin, and anal fin form a continuous, undulating fringe along the posterior half of the body, giving it the 'eel-tailed' appearance.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for the distinctive elongated body that tapers to an eel-like tail, where the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins are continuous.

2. 2

   Barbels

   Observe the four pairs of prominent barbels around the mouth, which are used for sensing food in murky water.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Note the generally dark olive to brown coloration on the back, lightening to cream on the belly, often with mottled patterns.

4. 4

   Spines

   Be aware of the strong, serrated spine at the leading edge of the pectoral fins.

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