Fish profile · Bagridae
Asian redtail catfish
Hemibagrus wyckioides
This introduced catfish is distinct from Malaysia's native bagrid catfishes. Its red-orange tail is a useful field clue, and Malaysian research and fisheries authorities identify it as an invasive concern.
Last reviewed 26 October 2026 · 8 sources
- IUCN
- LC
- Least Concern
- In Malaysia
- Invasive
- Family
- Bagridae
- order Siluriformes
Category from the IUCN Red List, via GBIF (CC BY 4.0); it may lag the latest Red List assessment.
How to identify
- Catfish body with barbels around the mouth
- Distinctive reddish-orange tail in larger fish
Habitat
Freshwater rivers after introduction into Malaysian catchments.
- Diet
- Insects, prawns, fish and crabs.
- Native range
- The Mekong and Lancang river systems in mainland Southeast Asia.
Before you fish
The Department of Fisheries identifies this catfish as an invasive concern. Its published import-risk page describes controls for Hemibagrus wyckioides; do not assume that advice for Amazon redtail catfish covers this species. Check the rules before acquiring or moving it.
Rules change and differ by state. Check with your state Fisheries Office before you fish. Last checked 26 October 2026.
Sources
Last reviewed 26 October 2026