Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin gagata (Gagata melanopterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Sisoridae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The blackfin gagata is a sisorid catfish (Sisoridae) from fast-flowing, turbid rivers of South Asia, including the Ganges and Brahmaputra systems. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, flattened, silver-grey body with dark fins, barbels and a groove on the chest with which it clings to the bottom. As a bottom-dweller it moves in schools over sand and gravel and snaps at insect larvae and small invertebrates. The stout pectoral spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin gagata?
The Blackfin gagata has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Blackfin gagata live?
The Blackfin gagata lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Myanmar
How big does the Blackfin gagata get?
The Blackfin gagata grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Blackfin gagata dangerous to humans?
The Blackfin gagata can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gagata
More from the family Sisoridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin gagata?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin gagata is one of 12,519 species in the app.