Fin's Fish Guide
The Flathead bagrid (Hemibagrus planiceps) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 34 cm.
Description
The Flathead bagrid is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from fresh water of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 30 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 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 Flathead bagrid?
The Flathead bagrid has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Flathead bagrid live?
The Flathead bagrid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Flathead bagrid get?
The Flathead bagrid grows to a maximum of about 34 cm.
Is the Flathead bagrid dangerous to humans?
The Flathead bagrid 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemibagrus
More from the family Bagridae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flathead bagrid is one of 12,519 species in the app.