Fin's Fish Guide
The Sun catfish (Horabagrus brachysoma) is a brackish-water fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The sun catfish is a catfish (Horabagridae) from fresh and slightly brackish water of the Western Ghats in southwestern India. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a stocky, yellow-brown body with a large head, four pairs of barbels and a conspicuous dark shoulder spot with a yellow halo. As a nocturnal bottom predator it hunts small fish, crustaceans and insects in rivers and backwaters. Through overfishing and habitat loss the species is vulnerable. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sun catfish?
The Sun catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Sun catfish live?
The Sun catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: India
How big does the Sun catfish get?
The Sun catfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Sun catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Sun 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 Sun catfish edible?
Yes, the Sun 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 Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Sun catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sun catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.