Plicofollis layardi (Günther, 1866)
Thinspine sea catfish
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Ariidae (Sea catfishes), subfamily: Ariinae
Max. size:  49.2 cm TL (male/unsexed); 51 cm TL (female); max.weight: 1,300.0 g; max.weight: 1,586.0 g
Environment:  demersal; brackish; marine; depth range 20 - 50 m, amphidromous
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Mozambique and Persian Gulf to Sri Lanka.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Found in coastal waters down to a depth of about 50 m (Ref. 5213). Enters brackish waters (Ref. 4833). Feeds mainly on invertebrates and small fishes. Caught mainly with bagnets, dipnets, bamboo stake traps and on hook and line.
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  traumatogenic


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