Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese paddlefish (Psephurus gladius) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Polyodontidae that grows up to 300 cm.
Description
The Chinese paddlefish was one of the largest freshwater fishes in the world, a paddlefish (Polyodontidae) from the Yangtze River system in China. The species could grow to about 3 metres and had a streamlined, scale-poor body with an extraordinarily long, sword-shaped snout full of electric senses, with which it detected prey. As a migratory top predator it hunted fish and crustaceans. Through dams and overfishing it has not been seen since the early part of this century and is considered extinct. To humans it was harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese paddlefish?
The Chinese paddlefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Chinese paddlefish live?
The Chinese paddlefish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China
How big does the Chinese paddlefish get?
The Chinese paddlefish grows to a maximum of about 300 cm.
Is the Chinese paddlefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese paddlefish 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 paddlefish edible?
Yes, the Chinese paddlefish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Polyodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Chinese paddlefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese paddlefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.