Fin's Fish Guide
The Bareheaded bagrid (Tachysurus nudiceps) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The bareheaded bagrid is a Japanese catfish of the bagrid family (Bagridae), endemic to Japan. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a streamlined body with barbels around the mouth, an adipose fin and a nearly scaleless, 'bare' head, to which its name refers. It inhabits Lake Biwa and rivers of western Japan and is a bottom-oriented omnivore feeding on insect larvae, small crustaceans and plant matter. Like other bagrids it has stout pectoral and dorsal spines that can give painful puncture wounds. Therefore handle the species with care. It is eaten locally and is otherwise harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bareheaded bagrid?
The Bareheaded bagrid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Almost scaleless, 'bare' head with barbels; sharp, stinging fin spines.
Where does the Bareheaded bagrid live?
The Bareheaded bagrid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Japan; Lake Biwa and rivers of western Japan.
How big does the Bareheaded bagrid get?
The Bareheaded bagrid grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Bareheaded bagrid dangerous to humans?
No, the Bareheaded bagrid is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Bareheaded bagrid edible?
The Bareheaded bagrid is rarely 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
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