Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded catfish (Tachysurus fulvidraco) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 35 cm.
East Asia; river channels and lakes of China, Korea and the Amur basin.
Description
The yellowhead catfish is an Asian catfish of the bagrid family (Bagridae) from East Asia, including China, Korea and the Amur basin. The species grows to about 34 cm and has a yellow-brown, dark mottled body with four pairs of barbels and stout pectoral and dorsal spines. Adults live in river channels and lakes and search the bottom for insects, worms, small fishes and molluscs. The species is an important aquaculture and food fish in China. The pectoral and dorsal spines bear venom glands; a sting gives a painful, burning wound, so handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded catfish?
The Banded catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a marbled pattern. Four pairs of barbels and venomous pectoral and dorsal fin spines; important farmed fish in China.
Where does the Banded catfish live?
The Banded catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East Asia; river channels and lakes of China, Korea and the Amur basin.
How big does the Banded catfish get?
The Banded catfish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Banded catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded catfish is harmless to humans. The pectoral and dorsal spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Banded catfish edible?
Yes, the Banded 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 Tachysurus
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Banded catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.