Fin's Fish Guide
The Mekong torrent catfish (Amblyceps foratum) is a freshwater fish of the family Amblycipitidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Mekong torrent catfish is a small torrent catfish (Amblycipitidae) from fast-flowing fresh water of the Mekong basin in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a stocky, scaleless, yellow-brown body with barbels and a slightly notched tail. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among stones and gravel and searches for insect larvae and small invertebrates at night. The pectoral and dorsal spines can cause a painful puncture wound; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mekong torrent catfish?
The Mekong torrent catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Mekong torrent catfish live?
The Mekong torrent catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand
How big does the Mekong torrent catfish get?
The Mekong torrent catfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Mekong torrent catfish dangerous to humans?
The Mekong torrent catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Handle the fish carefully; the pectoral and dorsal spines can give a painful puncture wound. Rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. For persistent pain immerse the part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45C), and check tetanus status for a deep wound or infection.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Amblyceps
More from the family Amblycipitidae
Want the complete picture on the Mekong torrent catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mekong torrent catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.