Fin's Fish Guide
The Butter catfish (Ompok hypophthalmus) is a freshwater fish of the family Siluridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The butter catfish is a slender catfish from fresh water of Southeast Asia, in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a laterally compressed, silvery-sheened body, a large mouth and short barbels. As a nocturnal predator it swims in the midwater of rivers and lakes and hunts small fish, shrimp and insects. It is a local food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butter catfish?
The Butter catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Compressed silvery body with a large mouth; nocturnal predatory catfish
Where does the Butter catfish live?
The Butter catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Butter catfish get?
The Butter catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Butter catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Butter catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Butter catfish edible?
Yes, the Butter 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 Ompok
More from the family Siluridae
Want the complete picture on the Butter catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butter catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.