Mystus rhegma Fowler, 1935
Mystus rhegma
photo by James, A.

Family:  Bagridae (Bagrid catfishes)
Max. size:  12 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; freshwater
Distribution:  Asia: Bangkok, Meklong and Chao Phraya basins in Thailand and Lower Mekong.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 1-1; Dorsal soft rays (total): 7-7; Anal soft rays: 11-14; Vertebrae: 41-43. Differs from all other Mystus sensu stricto by its strongly demarcated, narrow, midlateral longitudinal dark stripe (straddling the lateral line canal), and in having base of outer mandibular barbels slightly behind, rather than in front of, a line vertical to posterior margin of labial rictus. Adipose fin relatively short, originating at a distance of about one eye diameter posterior to dorsal fin and extending only a short distance onto caudal peduncle (Ref. 10418). Total gill rakers 24-28 (Ref. 12975). Adipose fin base longer than anal fin base, originating slightly behind dorsal; cranial fontanel extending posteriorly to base of occipital process (Ref. 43281).
Biology:  Adults occur in medium to large-sized rivers and flooded fields (Ref. 12975). Feed on insect larvae, fish scales and other fish body parts, as well as plant debris. Breeding habits and seasonal movements are unknown (Ref. 12693). Oviparous, distinct pairing possibly like other members of the same family (Ref. 205).
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 19 January 2011 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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