Yarrelli Goonch Catfish - (Bagarius Yarrelli)

🐟 Yarrelli Goonch Catfish - (Bagarius yarrelli) – Giant River Monster Catfish

The Yarrelli Goonch Catfish (Bagarius yarrelli) is a legendary giant freshwater catfish species found in the fast-flowing rivers of South and Southeast Asia, including the Ganges, Mekong, and Brahmaputra basins. Known for its enormous size, powerful build, and predatory nature, this species is a true river monster, capable of reaching weights over 200 lbs in the wild.

Its flattened head, muscular body, and mottled gray-brown coloration help it blend into rocky riverbeds where it ambushes fish and other prey. Due to its massive size and specialized habitat needs, it is best suited for public aquariums or the largest custom-built home tanks.

🔎 Quick Facts – Yarrelli Goonch Catfish

• 📛 Common Name: Yarrelli Goonch Catfish, Giant Goonch Catfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Bagarius yarrelli
• 🌍 Origin: South & Southeast Asia – Ganges, Mekong, Brahmaputra River Basins
• 🎨 Appearance: Flattened head, wide mouth, mottled gray-brown body
• 📏 Max Size: 72+ inches (183+ cm) in the wild
• 💎 Availability: Extremely rare in the aquarium trade; prized by monster fish enthusiasts

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Powerful and predatory
• 🐟 Best kept alone or with very large, non-aggressive fish
• 🌊 Highly active and requires strong current

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 1,000+ gallons (public aquarium scale)
• 🪵 Large open swimming areas with rocky refuges
• 🌊 Extremely strong water flow and high oxygenation
• 💡 Dim to moderate lighting

💧 Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 68–78°F (20–26°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.8
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous

• 🐟 Whole fish (fresh or frozen)
• 🦐 Shrimp, prawns, and other crustaceans
• 🪱 Earthworms and other meaty foods
• 🚫 Avoid small tankmates – will be eaten

📋 Overview Table

✨ Highlight:
The Yarrelli Goonch Catfish is one of the world’s largest and most powerful freshwater predators, making it a legendary species among monster fish keepers and a true giant of Asian rivers.