Macrognathus taeniagaster (Fowler, 1935)
Macrognathus taeniagaster
photo by Baird, I.G.

Family:  Mastacembelidae (Spiny eels)
Max. size:  22 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater
Distribution:  Asia: Chao Phrya, Meklong and Mekong basins.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Inhabits flowing and standing water habitats. Often found in impoundments. During the daytime, it spends much of its time mostly buried in silt, sand or fine gravel. Usually only the snout and eye protrude from the bottom. Emerges at night to feed on benthic insect larvae, crustaceans and worms. Also caught with push-nets and set-nets. Sold fresh and often seen in the aquarium trade.
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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