Fin's Fish Guide
The Goonch (Bagarius yarrelli) is a fish of the family Sisoridae that grows up to 200 cm.
Description
The goonch is a very large hillstream catfish (Sisoridae) from large, fast-flowing rivers of South and Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 2 metres and has a flattened, yellow-brown marbled body with a broad, flat head, long barbels and a deeply forked tail. As a powerful bottom predator it lies on the floor of deep rapids and seizes fish and carrion. The stout, sharp dorsal and pectoral spines and the large teeth can inflict a serious wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goonch?
The Goonch is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Goonch live?
The Goonch is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Goonch get?
The Goonch grows to a maximum of about 200 cm.
Is the Goonch dangerous to humans?
The Goonch can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bagarius
More from the family Sisoridae
Want the complete picture on the Goonch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Goonch is one of 12,519 species in the app.