Fin's Fish Guide
The Darkhead catfish (Mystus nigriceps) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Darkhead catfish is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from fresh water of Sundaland and the Mekong basin in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an elongate, grey-brown body with long barbels, an adipose fin and stout, serrated spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins. As a nocturnal bottom predator it searches rivers and pools for insect larvae, worms, crustaceans and small fish. The fin spines carry a mild venom and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Darkhead catfish?
The Darkhead catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Darkhead catfish live?
The Darkhead catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand
How big does the Darkhead catfish get?
The Darkhead catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Darkhead catfish dangerous to humans?
The Darkhead catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
Is the Darkhead catfish edible?
Yes, the Darkhead 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 Mystus
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Darkhead catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Darkhead catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.