Fin's Fish Guide
The Deepwater midshipman (Porichthys bathoiketes) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The Deepwater midshipman is a midshipman toadfish (Batrachoididae) from shallow sand and mud water of the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a stocky, brown mottled body with a broad, flat head, a large mouth and rows of light organs along the belly. As a bottom-dweller it lies half-buried or under stones and seizes small fish and crustaceans; the males hum loudly to attract females. The sharp dorsal and gill-cover spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Deepwater midshipman?
The Deepwater midshipman has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Deepwater midshipman live?
The Deepwater midshipman lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: French Guiana, Guyana, Honduras, Suriname, Venezuela
How big does the Deepwater midshipman get?
The Deepwater midshipman grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Deepwater midshipman dangerous to humans?
The Deepwater midshipman can cause injury; handle it with care. For a puncture or cut from a fin spine: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and remove any visible fragments. Cover and keep clean. For a deep wound, a retained spine or signs of infection see a doctor and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Porichthys
More from the family Batrachoididae
Want the complete picture on the Deepwater midshipman?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Deepwater midshipman is one of 12,519 species in the app.