The Harlequin catfish (Bagroides melapterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 34 cm.
Description
The harlequin catfish is a bagrid catfish from Southeast Asia, occurring in Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. It grows to about 34 cm and has a stocky catfish body with long barbels around the mouth. A bottom-dweller, the fish lives in tropical freshwater rivers. Little detail is recorded of its diet and reproduction; related bagrids are carnivorous and eat small fish and invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans and is sometimes collected for the aquarium trade. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Harlequin catfish?
The Harlequin catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Harlequin catfish live?
The Harlequin catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Harlequin catfish get?
The Harlequin catfish grows to a maximum of about 34 cm.
Is the Harlequin catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Harlequin catfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Harlequin catfish edible?
The Harlequin catfish is rarely eaten.
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Bagridae
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