Fin's Fish Guide
The Shining catfish (Tachysurus nitidus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 41 cm.
Description
The Shining catfish is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from fresh water of East Asia. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a sturdy, scaleless, brown-grey body with four pairs of barbels, an adipose fin and a long anal fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud of rivers and lakes for insect larvae, small crustaceans, molluscs and small fish. The stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shining catfish?
The Shining catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Shining catfish live?
The Shining catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China
How big does the Shining catfish get?
The Shining catfish grows to a maximum of about 41 cm. On average the species is around 11 cm.
Is the Shining catfish dangerous to humans?
The Shining 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tachysurus
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Shining catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shining catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.