Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortbarbel pangasius (Pseudolais micronemus) is a freshwater fish of the family Pangasiidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The shortbarbel pangasius is a shark catfish from Southeast Asia, in the large rivers of the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins and the Sunda Islands. The species grows to about 1 metre and has a streamlined, silver-grey body with a shark-like dorsal fin, short barbels and an adipose fin. It forms schools in the open water column of large rivers and eats plant matter, fruit, molluscs and small invertebrates. It is an important food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortbarbel pangasius?
The Shortbarbel pangasius has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Shark-like dorsal fin, short barbels and an adipose fin; schooling river catfish
Where does the Shortbarbel pangasius live?
The Shortbarbel pangasius lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Shortbarbel pangasius get?
The Shortbarbel pangasius grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Shortbarbel pangasius dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortbarbel 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 Shortbarbel pangasius edible?
Yes, the Shortbarbel pangasius is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudolais
More from the family Pangasiidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortbarbel pangasius?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortbarbel pangasius is one of 12,519 species in the app.