Gangetic Mystus

Mystus cavasius

The gangetic mystus (Mystus cavasius) is a freshwater catfish in the family Bagridae, native to the Indian subcontinent. Adults reach about 20-25 cm with an elongated body, four pairs of barbels around the mouth, and a distinctive adipose fin. Coloration is silvery with a brownish-olive back. This species inhabits rivers, streams, ponds, and floodplain wetlands at depths of 0-5 meters throughout India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, and Myanmar, particularly in the Ganges and Brahmaputra river systems. Gangetic mystus are omnivorous bottom-feeders consuming insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and plant matter. They are primarily nocturnal and shelter in submerged vegetation during the day. This species is economically important as a highly valued food fish across the Indian subcontinent with significant market demand. Their presence in clear sections of Indian rivers can be observed by divers exploring freshwater habitats in the region.