Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotfin bagrid (Hemibagrus spilopterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 31 cm.
Description
The Spotfin bagrid is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from fresh water of the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, grey-brown body with long barbels, an adipose fin and stout, serrated spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins. As a nocturnal bottom predator it searches rivers for insect larvae, worms, crustaceans and small fish. The fin spines carry a mild venom and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotfin bagrid?
The Spotfin bagrid has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Spotfin bagrid live?
The Spotfin bagrid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Cambodia
How big does the Spotfin bagrid get?
The Spotfin bagrid grows to a maximum of about 31 cm.
Is the Spotfin bagrid dangerous to humans?
The Spotfin bagrid 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemibagrus
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Spotfin bagrid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotfin bagrid is one of 12,519 species in the app.