Fin's Fish Guide
The Shellfeeder shark catfish (Pangasius conchophilus) is a freshwater fish of the family Pangasiidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The Shellfeeder shark catfish is a shark catfish (Pangasiidae) from large rivers of the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 1,2 meter and has a streamlined, laterally compressed, silver-grey body with a broad mouth, barbels and an adipose fin, and swims like a shark in open water. As an omnivore it migrates through rivers in schools and eats fish, crustaceans, fruit, seeds and detritus. It is an extremely important food fish. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shellfeeder shark catfish?
The Shellfeeder shark catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Shellfeeder shark catfish live?
The Shellfeeder shark catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Shellfeeder shark catfish get?
The Shellfeeder shark catfish grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the Shellfeeder shark catfish dangerous to humans?
The Shellfeeder shark catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
Is the Shellfeeder shark catfish edible?
Yes, the Shellfeeder shark catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pangasius
More from the family Pangasiidae
Want the complete picture on the Shellfeeder shark catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shellfeeder shark catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.