Fin's Fish Guide
The Sixbarbel catfish (Laides hexanema) is a freshwater fish of the family Schilbeidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The sixbarbel catfish is a slender catfish from fresh and brackish water of Southeast Asia, in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins. The species grows to about 17 cm and has an elongate, silvery, partly translucent body, an adipose fin and six long barbels. As a nocturnal, schooling fish it swims in the midwater of rivers and feeds on insects, small zooplankton and fish. It is a local food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sixbarbel catfish?
The Sixbarbel catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Six long barbels and an adipose fin; schooling midwater catfish
Where does the Sixbarbel catfish live?
The Sixbarbel catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Sixbarbel catfish get?
The Sixbarbel catfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Sixbarbel catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Sixbarbel catfish 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 Sixbarbel catfish edible?
Yes, the Sixbarbel catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Schilbeidae
Want the complete picture on the Sixbarbel catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sixbarbel catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.