Devil Catfish - Bagarius Yarrelli

Origin:

India is a land of diversity, both in terms of its people and its natural treasures. In the murky waters of India’s rivers, lurks one of the most magnificent catfish species, Bagarius yarrelli. The Bagarius Yarrelli, commonly known as the giant devil catfish or goonch , is found in the freshwater river systems of South and Southeast Asia. 

Size:

In terms of height, Bagarius yarrelli can grow up to a maximum length of around 1.8 meters (6 feet), although most specimens tend to be somewhat smaller. They are also quite heavy, with the average weight of an adult fish being around 50-60 kilograms (110-130 pounds). These impressive dimensions make Bagarius yarrelli one of the largest freshwater fish species in South Asia.

Behavioural Traits:

In terms of behaviour, Bagarius yarrelli is generally a solitary and territorial species. It is known to be highly aggressive and can be difficult to handle, making it a challenging species to study in the wild. It is also a nocturnal species, and tends to be most active during the night when it hunts for prey. 

Diet:

Bagarius yarrelli is a carnivorous species, and their diet consists of a variety of prey. They are opportunistic feeders and will consume any small to medium-sized aquatic animals they can catch. Their diet includes fish, prawns, crabs, snails, insects, and other invertebrates found in their habitat.

As they mature, their diet also changes. Juveniles primarily feed on small crustaceans and insects, while adults prefer larger prey such as fish and crabs. They are also known to be nocturnal predators, and their feeding activity increases during the night. 

Water Parameters:

The water in which Bagarius yarrelli is found typically has a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, ranging from 7.0 to 8.0. The salinity of the water is typically low, as the fish is adapted to living in freshwater environments. The temperature of the water can vary depending on the season and location, but Bagarius yarrelli is known to be able to tolerate a wide range of temperatures.