Range: Indo-Pacific Ocean: Red Sea to Samoa, north to South Korea and south to Lord Howe Island

Size: Up to 14 inches (35 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabit coastal estuarine areas where debris collects and often seen in large groups bottom feeding in sandy or muddy areas

General Husbandry: Has a temperature range of 72 - 82°F (22 - 28°C) and natural diet consists mainly of small invertebrate. A hardy fish, yet has highly venomous fins, therefore, avoid handling. Requires a meaty diet and numerous feeding per day. The only catfish found on coral reefs. The smaller the individual, the larger the schooling group. Larger specimens tend to keep to themselves. May look neat in schools, but actually better left in the wild. The bigger they get the more other fishes in the tank become a possible food supply.

Aquarium Suitability: * * & * * *