The Canara mystus (Mystus canarensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Bagridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Canara mystus is a bagrid catfish (Bagridae) from fresh water of southern India. The species has a slender to sturdy, scaleless, brown-grey body with four pairs of barbels, an adipose fin and a long anal fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud of rivers and lakes for insect larvae, small crustaceans, molluscs 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 Canara mystus?
The Canara mystus has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Canara mystus live?
The Canara mystus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Canara mystus get?
The Canara mystus grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Canara mystus dangerous to humans?
The Canara mystus is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mystus
More from the family Bagridae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.