Galeichthys
Galeichthys is a genus of marine catfish in the family Ariidae. These fish are commonly known as sea catfish, and they are found in the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans. Members of this genus are typically bottom-dwelling fish, and are found in a variety of habitats, including estuaries, mangroves, and coral reefs. They are generally nocturnal, and are carnivorous feeders.
Common Names
Common names for species in the genus Galeichthys include:
- Sea catfish
- Hardhead catfish
- Gafftopsail catfish
- Spotted sea catfish
Characteristics
Galeichthys species are characterized by their elongated bodies, flattened heads, and barbels around their mouths. They have a single dorsal fin that is positioned far back on their bodies, and their anal fins are long and low. Some species have distinctive markings, such as spots or stripes.
Environments
Galeichthys species are typically found in coastal waters, but some species can tolerate brackish or freshwater conditions. They prefer habitats with soft bottoms, such as sand or mud, and are often found near reefs, mangroves, or estuaries.
References
For more information on Galeichthys, see these reliable references: