Fin's Fish Guide
The Speckledfin midshipman (Porichthys oculellus) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Speckledfin midshipman is a midshipman toadfish (Batrachoididae) from shallow sand and mud water of the eastern Pacific around Central America. 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 Speckledfin midshipman?
The Speckledfin 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 Speckledfin midshipman live?
The Speckledfin midshipman lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Colombia
How big does the Speckledfin midshipman get?
The Speckledfin midshipman grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Speckledfin midshipman dangerous to humans?
The Speckledfin 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 Speckledfin midshipman?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Speckledfin midshipman is one of 12,519 species in the app.