Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant river catfish (Sperata seenghala) is a brackish-water fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 150 cm.
Description
The giant river catfish is a large catfish from fresh and brackish water of South Asia, in the Indus, Ganges and Brahmaputra systems. The species grows to about 150 cm and has an elongate, greyish body with a flattened head, an adipose fin and four pairs of long barbels. On the dorsal and pectoral fins it bears strong spines that can prick painfully when handled. As a nocturnal predator it hunts fish, shrimp and crustaceans in large rivers. It is an important and valued food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant river catfish?
The Giant river catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Flattened head, adipose fin and four pairs of long barbels; nocturnal predatory catfish
Where does the Giant river catfish live?
The Giant river catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South Asia
How big does the Giant river catfish get?
The Giant river catfish grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Giant river catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant river catfish 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 Giant river catfish edible?
Yes, the Giant river 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 Sperata
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Giant river catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant river catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.