Gloomy sea catfish
📖 Overview
Gloomy sea catfish (Cathorops hypophthalmus), first described by Steindachner, 1876 is a medium-sized fish in the family Ariidae (order Siluriformes). Adults typically reach 35.00 cm in maximum length. It is diadromous, migrating between freshwater and marine environments during its life cycle. It occurs in Tropical waters. Diet is predominantly piscivorous, targeting other fish and larger prey. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is important as a food fish, venomous and potentially dangerous to handle, and considered a sustainable seafood option under current management. As a member of the Ariidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Gloomy sea catfish is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Gloomy sea catfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; freshwater; brackish; demersal. Tropical; 9°N - 8°N Central America: Pacific draining rivers, in brackish and fresh water of Panama.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
⚠️ Venom Profile
- pain
- oedema
- rare systemic effects
Wound care, analgesia.
References: Compiled from Bhide (2018), Halstead et al. (1988) and family-specific envenomation literature
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Cathorops Hypophthalmus is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Gloomy sea catfish is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Gloomy sea catfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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