Fin's Fish Guide
The Asian redtail catfish (Hemibagrus nemurus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 65 cm.
Description
The Asian redtail catfish is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from Southeast Asia. The species has an elongate, scaleless body with four pairs of long barbels, an adipose fin and an often reddish tail. It occurs in nearly all water types, but most in large, muddy rivers with slow current and soft bottom. As a nocturnal predator it takes fishes, crustaceans and insects. The sturdy, serrated pectoral fin spines can inflict painful puncture wounds when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Asian redtail catfish?
The Asian redtail catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Four pairs of long barbels and a reddish tail; nocturnal predatory catfish with sharp pectoral fin spines.
Where does the Asian redtail catfish live?
The Asian redtail catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia; large muddy rivers.
How big does the Asian redtail catfish get?
The Asian redtail catfish grows to a maximum of about 65 cm.
Is the Asian redtail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Asian redtail catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the sturdy, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict painful puncture wounds. Clean the wound thoroughly, disinfect and seek medical care for a deep wound or infection.
Is the Asian redtail catfish edible?
Yes, the Asian redtail catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemibagrus
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Asian redtail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Asian redtail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.