Fin's Fish Guide
The Gangetic mystus (Mystus cavasius) is a brackish-water fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The Gangetic mystus is a bagrid catfish from South Asia, occurring in Pakistan, Nepal, India, Sri Lanka and Myanmar, in major river systems such as the Indus, the Ganges-Brahmaputra and the Irrawaddy. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, greyish body with a midlateral stripe and a dark spot before the dorsal fin; the very long barbels reach beyond the tail base in adults. It lives in fresh and brackish tidal water and can breathe air. The pectoral and dorsal fin spines are venomous and can inflict a painful wound. It is a valued food fish; the IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gangetic mystus?
The Gangetic mystus has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Very long whisker-like barbels; venomous pectoral and dorsal fin spines; can breathe air
Where does the Gangetic mystus live?
The Gangetic mystus lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South Asia
How big does the Gangetic mystus get?
The Gangetic mystus grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Gangetic mystus dangerous to humans?
The Gangetic mystus is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. After a fin-spine sting, immerse the affected part in hot water (about 45 degrees) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom; clean the wound and seek medical help for severe pain or swelling.
Is the Gangetic mystus edible?
Yes, the Gangetic mystus 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 Gangetic mystus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gangetic mystus is one of 12,519 species in the app.