Fin's Fish Guide
The Harlequin catfish (Bagroides melapterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 34 cm.
Description
The harlequin catfish is a bagrid catfish from Southeast Asia, occurring in Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. It grows to about 34 cm and has a stocky catfish body with long barbels around the mouth. A bottom-dweller, the fish lives in tropical freshwater rivers. Little detail is recorded of its diet and reproduction; related bagrids are carnivorous and eat small fish and invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans and is sometimes collected for the aquarium trade. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Harlequin catfish?
The Harlequin catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Bottom-dwelling bagrid catfish with long whisker-like barbels
Where does the Harlequin catfish live?
The Harlequin catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Harlequin catfish get?
The Harlequin catfish grows to a maximum of about 34 cm.
Is the Harlequin catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Harlequin 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 Harlequin catfish edible?
The Harlequin catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Harlequin catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Harlequin catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.