| Family: |
Mastacembelidae (Spiny eels) |
| Max. size: |
30 cm SL (male/unsexed) |
| Environment: |
benthopelagic; freshwater |
| Distribution: |
Asia: Mekong, Chao Phraya (Ref. 43281), Maeklong, Peninsular and Southeast Thailand river systems (Ref. 26336). |
| Diagnosis: |
Dorsal spines (total): 13-19; Dorsal soft rays (total): 53-53; Anal soft rays: 49-49; Vertebrae: 75-75. Distinguishable by its dorsal spine count of 13-19 and a series of 3-6 conspicuous ocelli along the base of the soft dorsal fin (Ref. 27732). The ocelli along the base of the dorsal fin are much larger than those in M. aral and the dorsal and caudal fins lack the fine striations seen in M. aral and M. meklongensis (Ref. 39392). Dorsal, caudal and anal fins not fused (Ref. 43281). |
| Biology: |
Found at bottom depths in slow-moving or standing waters. Often lies buried in the silt, sand, or fine gravel with only a portion of its head protruding from the bottom (Ref. 12693). Enters flooded forest (Ref. 9497). Emerges at dusk to forage for food. Feeds on benthic insect larvae, crustaceans, and worms (Ref. 12693). Marketed fresh and often seen in the aquarium trade (Ref. 12693). |
| IUCN Red List Status: |
Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 24 February 2011 Ref. (130435)
|
| Threat to humans: |
harmless |
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