Fin's Fish Guide
The Sharpnose pangasius (Helicophagus leptorhynchus) is a freshwater fish of the family Pangasiidae that grows up to 47 cm.
Description
The sharpnose pangasius is a catfish from fresh water of Southeast Asia, in the Mekong basin. The species grows to about 47 cm and has a streamlined, silver-grey body with a pointed snout, an adipose fin and barbels. As a predator it swims in the deeper channels of large rivers and hunts mainly bivalve molluscs, which it picks off the bottom, and small fish. It is a valued food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sharpnose pangasius?
The Sharpnose pangasius has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Pointed snout and adipose fin; mollusc-eating predatory river catfish
Where does the Sharpnose pangasius live?
The Sharpnose pangasius lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Sharpnose pangasius get?
The Sharpnose pangasius grows to a maximum of about 47 cm.
Is the Sharpnose pangasius dangerous to humans?
No, the Sharpnose pangasius 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 Sharpnose pangasius edible?
Yes, the Sharpnose pangasius is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Helicophagus
More from the family Pangasiidae
Want the complete picture on the Sharpnose pangasius?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sharpnose pangasius is one of 12,519 species in the app.