Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese sucker (Myxocyprinus asiaticus) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 68 cm.
Description
The Chinese highfin banded shark is a sucker (Catostomidae) from East Asia. Juveniles have a deep, triangular body with a conspicuously high, sail-like dorsal fin and broad dark crossbars; with age the body lengthens and the dorsal fin lowers. It lives bottom-bound in large rivers and forages with its inferior sucker mouth for bottom animals and detritus. Through dam construction and overfishing the species has strongly declined and is considered vulnerable. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese sucker?
The Chinese sucker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Juveniles with a deep triangular body and a sail-like dorsal fin and vertical bars; endangered sucker from the Yangtze.
Where does the Chinese sucker live?
The Chinese sucker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East Asia; large rivers.
How big does the Chinese sucker get?
The Chinese sucker grows to a maximum of about 68 cm. On average the species is around 22 cm.
Is the Chinese sucker dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese sucker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chinese sucker edible?
Yes, the Chinese sucker 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 Catostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Chinese sucker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese sucker is one of 12,519 species in the app.