Abstract: Estuaries of Matang mangrove reserves in Perak provide an ideal habitat for Arius maculatus
population. Results of our survey showed that most of the fish species caught were in their sub-adult
stages with size ranged between 11 – 21 cm SL as shown in length frequency analysis. The relative
growth condition of the fish population was allometrically negative with “b” value < 3.0 (W = 0.040L2.78)
respectively. Study on reproductive biology of the species showed that almost half of the specimens caught
were comprised of maturing males and female’s gonad development attained stage II – III. Stomach
content analysis demonstrated that A. maculatus was an excellent benthic feeder in muddy water
environment. Three major food items have been listed and dominated by zoobenthos and benthic
crustacean. Meanwhile bioacoustic study showed that the fish produced a distinct sound resulted from
stridulation of pectoral fins. The roles played by Matang mangrove systems as an integral breeding and
nursery ground for this particular species was also discussed.