Bagarius yarrelli — a Sisoridae from Yunnan, China (Lancang & Nu rivers), peaceful; most activity happens after dark. Reaches 50–150 cm; keep bottom stock light — they share one floor. 18–25 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–25 °C
pH
6.5–7.8
GH hardness
15.6–26.4 dGH
Adult length
50–150 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom of fast water
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; most activity happens after dark
Origin
Yunnan, China (Lancang & Nu rivers)
Species overview
Bagarius yarrelli is a Sisoridae from Yunnan, China (Lancang & Nu rivers). Its barbels read the sand like fingers; coarse gravel slowly wears them down. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 50–150 cm. Keep bottom stock light — they share one floor. Provide soft substrate, hiding tubes, and food that reaches the bottom before tankmates finish it. Maintain 18–25 °C at pH 6.5–7.8. Undemanding once its core needs are met.
Native biotope
Habitat
Mountain torrents clinging to boulders
Flow
Very strong current, highly oxygenated
Dissolved O₂
Requires very high dissolved oxygen
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Bare smooth rock
Hardscape
Large boulders forming crevices
Plants
Minimal
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Keep bottom stock light — they share one floor
Diet
Omnivorous scavenger — sinking pellets, frozen and vegetable foods
Recommended tankmates
Other similar-sized bottom fish — Share the floor peaceably