The sembilang fish
This fish can serve as an affordable source of protein, with prices ranging from approximately Rp25,000 to Rp40,000 per kilogram.
Are you not yet acquainted with the appearance of catfish? Let us explore its characteristics and other intriguing facts here.
The sembilang fish is a species classified under the class Actinopterygii, order Siluriformes, and family Plotosidae.
Sembilang
Known scientifically as Plotosus canius, the sembilang is also commonly referred to as the Striped Eel-Catfish.
From its English name, one might recognize that it is related to catfish, which translates to "ikan lele" in Indonesian.
Indeed, this fish shares a familial connection with catfish and possesses whiskers as well.
However, the sembilang inhabits marine environments, leading to its designation as "lele laut" or sea catfish among the Indonesian populace.
The sembilang typically exhibits an elongated body with a dark brown coloration.
Notably, some individuals of this species may display two small white stripes extending to the head.
The length of the sembilang ranges from 30 to 70 centimeters, depending on the specific type.
In Indian waters, this sea catfish can reach lengths of 80 to 150 centimeters.
The head of the sembilang features four pairs of short barbels.
These barbels serve as sensory organs, allowing the fish to detect prey, particularly during nighttime and in murky waters.
Caution is advised when handling this species, as the front edges of its dorsal and pectoral fins contain spines.
In Indonesia, two types of sembilang are cultivated: the black-and-white striped sembilang and the rock sembilang, which resides in crevices among rocks.
Unlike catfish, the sembilang possesses three spines, with one located on the back and two on the fins.