Fin's Fish Guide
The Striped catfish (Mystus vittatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The striped dwarf catfish is a small catfish (Bagridae) from South Asia, occurring in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Myanmar. The species reaches about 21 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with dark lateral stripes and four pairs of long barbels. It inhabits standing and flowing waters, often among marginal vegetation in lakes and swamps with a mud bottom. As an omnivore it eats plants, shrimps, insects, molluscs and small fishes. In front of the pectoral and dorsal fins it bears sharp spines that can cause painful punctures when handled. The species is eaten locally and kept in the aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striped catfish?
The Striped catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Longitudinal stripes and four pairs of barbels; sharp fin spines that cause injuries when handled.
Where does the Striped catfish live?
The Striped catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South Asia, in lakes, swamps and rivers.
How big does the Striped catfish get?
The Striped catfish grows to a maximum of about 21 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Striped catfish dangerous to humans?
The Striped catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but the sharp pectoral and dorsal fin spines can cause painful punctures and cuts when handled. Handle carefully and clean and disinfect a wound.
Is the Striped catfish edible?
The Striped catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mystus
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Striped catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Striped catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.