How to Identify Orange Catfish

To identify Orange Catfish (Horabagrus brachysoma), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

The body is typically a striking orange to yellowish-orange, often with a prominent, large, dark, oval-shaped spot on the flank, usually below the adipose fin. The fins can be yellowish to reddish, sometimes with dark margins. The ventral surface is lighter.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Robust, somewhat compressed body., Relatively short caudal peduncle., Large, dark, oval spot on the flank., Four pairs of barbels: one maxillary, one nasal, and two mandibular (inner and outer). Maxillary barbels are long, reaching beyond the pectoral fin base., Adipose fin is well-developed and distinct.

Dorsal fin

Short-based, with a strong, serrated spine and 7 soft rays. The spine is venomous.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Strong, with a serrated spine and 8-9 soft rays. The spine is venomous.

Distinctive fins

Adipose fin is prominent and fleshy. Pelvic fins are small, with 6 soft rays. Anal fin is moderately long, with 23-26 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Coloration

   Look for the vibrant orange to yellowish-orange body color, which is a key identifier.

2. 2

   Flank Spot

   The prominent, large, dark, oval-shaped spot on the side of the body, usually below the adipose fin, is a definitive characteristic.

3. 3

   Fin Spines

   Note the strong, serrated spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins. These are a common feature of bagrid catfishes.

4. 4

   Caudal Fin

   The deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes is also a good distinguishing feature.

5. 5

   Barbels

   Observe the four pairs of barbels, especially the long maxillary barbels that extend past the pectoral fin base.

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