Fin's Fish Guide
The Twospot catfish (Mystus bimaculatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Twospot catfish is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from fresh water of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 15 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 and pools 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 Twospot catfish?
The Twospot catfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Twospot catfish live?
The Twospot catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia
How big does the Twospot catfish get?
The Twospot catfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Twospot catfish dangerous to humans?
The Twospot catfish 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 Mystus
More from the family Bagridae
Want the complete picture on the Twospot catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Twospot catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.