Fin's Fish Guide
The Black lancer catfish (Bagrichthys macracanthus) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The black lancer catfish is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from fresh water of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, velvet-black body with barbels and a strikingly tall, lance-shaped dorsal fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches slow-flowing rivers for insect larvae, worms and detritus. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black lancer catfish?
The Black lancer catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly black. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Black lancer catfish live?
The Black lancer catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand
How big does the Black lancer catfish get?
The Black lancer catfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Black lancer catfish dangerous to humans?
The Black lancer catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bagrichthys
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Black lancer catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black lancer catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.