In News:

The recent discovery of the Crocodile Catfish (Bagariussuchus) in the Bahini River near Basistha, Guwahati, Assam, has garnered attention from conservationists and ecologists alike. As one of the largest freshwater catfish species in Asia, its presence in Indian waters raises both scientific interest and ecological concerns.

Taxonomy and Distribution

• Scientific Name: Bagariussuchus
• Family: Sisoridae – the largest family of Asian catfishes, widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia.
• Common Names: Asian Giant River Catfish, Crocodile Goonch Catfish, Giant Devil Catfish
• Geographical Range: Native to countries including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand.

Habitat and Morphological Features

• Natural Habitat: Prefers fast-flowing rivers, deep pools, turbulent rapids, and areas with rocky or gravelly substrates.
• Often found among boulders, submerged roots, and debris, thriving in cool, oxygen-rich waters.
• Physical Description:
  • Long, cylindrical body with a broad head and wide mouth.
  • Typicallydark brown to black, with irregular patches or spots for camouflage.
  • Dorsal fin is elongated, stretching along most of the back.
• Size: Can grow up to 1.5 meters in length and weigh over 50 kilograms, though smaller specimens (~70 cm) are also observed.

Behaviour and Ecology

• Feeding Habits: A carnivorous predator, feeding on smaller fish, crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates.
• Known for its voracious appetite, capable of consuming prey nearly its own size.
• Most active during evening or nighttime, making it a nocturnal feeder.
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males are generally slimmer and may exhibit slightly brighter coloration than females.

Ecological Concerns

• The discovery of the Crocodile Catfish in a non-native region like the Bahini River raises concerns about its invasive potential.
• It can threaten native aquatic biodiversity by preying on indigenous species and disturbing the ecological balance.
• Overfeeding and rapid proliferation can degrade water quality and disrupt food chains.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Near Threatened (NT): This status reflects concerns about habitat degradation, overfishing, and ecological displacement, which may impact population stability across its range.