Tete Sea Catfish, also known as Colombian Shark Catfish, is a type of sea catfish found in Central and South America.
Its scientific name is Ariopsis seemanni. It lives in rivers and estuaries near the Pacific Ocean. You can find it in coastal marine areas and brackish waters.
This fish is found at elevations up to 25 meters in medium to large rivers. People sell it fresh or salted at markets.
However, this fish is not suitable for home aquariums because it needs a lot of space (over 150 cm) and adult fish live in seawater.
Tete Sea Catfish Interesting Facts
- Tete sea catfish, or Ariopsis seemanni, are found in Central and South America near the Pacific Ocean.
- They live in various water types including marine, brackish, and freshwater environments with a preference for bottom-dwelling (demersal) habitats.
- Not suitable for home aquariums due to their size and seawater needs as adults.
- Males practice mouthbrooding by carrying eggs in their mouths for protection.
Tete Sea Catfish Habitat
Tete sea catfish is also known by its scientific name, Ariopsis seemanni.
It’s found in Central and South America, specifically in rivers and estuaries that flow into the Pacific Ocean, stretching from Mexico to Peru.
This fish lives in various water types including marine, brackish, and freshwater environments.
It prefers to stay near the bottom of the water (demersal). The ideal pH range for this fish is between 6.8 to 8.0 while it can tolerate a dH range of 8 to 30.
Tete sea catfish enjoys temperatures between 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C) and thrives in tropical climates located between latitudes 24°N to 5°S.
| Water Temperature: | 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C) |
| Water pH: | 6.8 to 8.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 8 to 30 dH |
Tete Sea Catfish Physical Characteristics
Size: 17.5 inches (44.4 centimeters)
Tete sea catfish grows up to 17.5 inches (44.4 centimeters) long. The heaviest one on record weighed 912.30 grams.
Tete Sea Catfish Reproduction
Male tete sea catfish carry eggs in their mouths to protect them, which is called mouthbrooding.
Tete Sea Catfish Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Siluriformes |
| Family: | Ariidae |
| Genus: | Ariopsis |
| Scientific Name: | Ariopsis seemanni |
| Also Known As: | Tete Sea Catfish, Colombian Shark Catfish |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |