Fin's Fish Guide
The Schmitt's toadfish (Daector schmitti) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
Schmitt's toadfish is a venomous toadfish (Batrachoididae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, scaleless, brown body with a large, flat head and a wide mouth. As a bottom-dweller it often lies half-buried in sand and mud. It carries hollow dorsal and gill-cover spines linked to venom glands; a sting gives a very painful, strongly swelling wound. Treat as a serious venomous sting.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Schmitt's toadfish?
The Schmitt's toadfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Schmitt's toadfish live?
The Schmitt's toadfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Costa Rica, Panama
How big does the Schmitt's toadfish get?
The Schmitt's toadfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Schmitt's toadfish dangerous to humans?
The Schmitt's toadfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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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 Schmitt's toadfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Schmitt's toadfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.