Fin's Fish Guide
The Variegated bagrid (Leiocassis poecilopterus) is a fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The variegated bagrid is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from slow-flowing fresh water of Sundaland in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a sturdy, scaleless, dark-marbled body with four pairs of barbels, an adipose fin and variegated fins. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for insect larvae, crustaceans and small fish. The stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Variegated bagrid?
The Variegated bagrid is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Variegated bagrid live?
The Variegated bagrid is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Variegated bagrid get?
The Variegated bagrid grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Variegated bagrid dangerous to humans?
The Variegated 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 Leiocassis
More from the family Bagridae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Variegated bagrid is one of 12,519 species in the app.