Fin's Fish Guide
The Long-whiskered catfish (Sperata aor) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 180 cm.
Description
The long-whiskered catfish is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from large rivers and estuaries of the Indian subcontinent in South Asia. The species grows to about 1.8 metres and has an elongate, grey-blue body with a broad head, very long barbels and a deeply forked tail with an extended upper lobe. As a predator it hunts fish, crustaceans and insects in turbid water. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Long-whiskered catfish?
The Long-whiskered catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Long-whiskered catfish live?
The Long-whiskered catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Bangladesh, Myanmar, India, Nepal, Pakistan
How big does the Long-whiskered catfish get?
The Long-whiskered catfish grows to a maximum of about 180 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Long-whiskered catfish dangerous to humans?
The Long-whiskered catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
Is the Long-whiskered catfish edible?
Yes, the Long-whiskered catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Long-whiskered catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Long-whiskered catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Long-whiskered catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Long-whiskered catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.