Fin's Fish Guide
The Dow's toadfish (Daector dowi) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
Dow's venomous toadfish is a toadfish (Batrachoididae) from the fresh and brackish waters of Central America. The species has a stocky body with a broad, flattened head, a large mouth and skin flaps. It lives bottom-bound in shallow waters and often lies half-buried in wait. As an ambush hunter it takes small invertebrates and small fishes. Unlike many toadfishes it bears hollow, venom-filled spines on the gill cover and in the dorsal fin; a sting is very painful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dow's toadfish?
The Dow's toadfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Hollow, venom-filled opercular and dorsal fin spines; half-buried ambush predator.
Where does the Dow's toadfish live?
The Dow's toadfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central America; shallow fresh and brackish waters.
How big does the Dow's toadfish get?
The Dow's toadfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Dow's toadfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dow's toadfish is harmless to humans. If stung by a spine: immerse the affected part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 degrees C) to break down the venom, and seek medical care for severe or persistent symptoms.
Is the Dow's toadfish edible?
The Dow's toadfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Daector
More from the family Batrachoididae
Want the complete picture on the Dow's toadfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dow's toadfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone