Striped Eel Catfish

Description:

This is the only type of catfish that is found on coral reefs (although they can also be found in estuaries, tide pools and open coasts). Juveniles of the species form dense ball-shaped schools of about 100 individuals; adults, on the other hand, are solitary (but can also be observed in smaller groups of around 20 fish) and are known to hide under coral ledges during the day. Adults feed on crustaceans, mollusks, worms and sometimes other fish. They stir the sand incessantly with the barbels found under their mouths in search for food. The venomous serrate spine of the first dorsal fin, as well as each of the pectoral fins, are dangerous, and can even be fatal to humans in rare cases. This species attains a maximum size of 32cm.

Habitat:

Widespread in the Indo-Pacific region.

Notes:

I would guess that these catfish were in their pre-adult stage, judging by their mouth barbels and body length. Spotted this school inside a small cave on a coral wall at a depth of around 16m during a day dive at San Juan Reef, Samal Island, Philippines. Update: The video here is of a different school of Striped Eel Catfish, taken at a different time and location.