Fin's Fish Guide
The Asian bumblebee catfish (Pseudomystus siamensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Asian bumblebee catfish is a small catfish from fresh water of Southeast Asia, in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with conspicuous dark and yellow cross-bars, like a bumblebee, and barbels around the mouth. On the dorsal and pectoral fins it bears strong spines that can prick painfully when handled. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among wood and stones and searches at night for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Asian bumblebee catfish?
The Asian bumblebee catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bumblebee-like vertical bars and strong fin spines; nocturnal small bottom catfish
Where does the Asian bumblebee catfish live?
The Asian bumblebee catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Asian bumblebee catfish get?
The Asian bumblebee catfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Asian bumblebee catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Asian bumblebee catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Asian bumblebee catfish edible?
The Asian bumblebee catfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Asian bumblebee catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Asian bumblebee catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.