Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese longsnout catfish (Leiocassis longirostris) is a fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The Chinese longsnout catfish is a large bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from large rivers of China, including the Yangtze, recently placed in the genus Tachysurus. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a streamlined, scaleless, grey-pink body with a long, flattened snout and four pairs of barbels. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches sand and mud bottoms for small fish, crustaceans and insect larvae. It is a highly valued food and aquaculture fish. The pectoral and dorsal fin spines are sharp and can prick; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese longsnout catfish?
The Chinese longsnout catfish is mainly pink-purple and shows a plain pattern. Long flattened snout and four pairs of barbels; sought-after farmed catfish
Where does the Chinese longsnout catfish live?
The Chinese longsnout catfish is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. China
How big does the Chinese longsnout catfish get?
The Chinese longsnout catfish grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 48 cm.
Is the Chinese longsnout catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese longsnout 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 Chinese longsnout catfish edible?
Yes, the Chinese longsnout catfish is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leiocassis
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Chinese longsnout catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese longsnout catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.