Fin's Fish Guide
Iridescent shark-catfish
The Iridescent shark-catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is a freshwater fish of the family Pangasiidae that grows up to 130 cm.
Description
The iridescent shark-catfish, called 'shark catfish' in the aquarium trade, is a large catfish of the family Pangasiidae from the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins in Southeast Asia. The species can reach about 130 cm and has a streamlined, scaleless, silvery-grey body with a shark-like silhouette and barbels. It inhabits large rivers and is a migratory species that spawns upstream. As an omnivore it eats fishes, crustaceans and plant matter. In front of the pectoral and dorsal fins it bears spines that can cause injury when handled. The species is farmed on an enormous scale (tra/basa), but is endangered (EN) in the wild.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Iridescent shark-catfish?
The Iridescent shark-catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Shark-like silhouette (aquarium name 'shark catfish'); one of the most widely farmed food fishes in the world, endangered (EN) in the wild.
Where does the Iridescent shark-catfish live?
The Iridescent shark-catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia, in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins.
How big does the Iridescent shark-catfish get?
The Iridescent shark-catfish grows to a maximum of about 130 cm.
Is the Iridescent shark-catfish dangerous to humans?
The Iridescent shark-catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but the sharp pectoral and dorsal fin spines can cause painful punctures and cuts when handled. Handle carefully and clean and disinfect a wound.
Is the Iridescent shark-catfish edible?
Yes, the Iridescent shark-catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Pangasiidae
Want the complete picture on the Iridescent shark-catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Iridescent shark-catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.