Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Pangasiidae
- Genus
- Helicophagus
- Species
- leptorhynshuc
Habitat
This species primarily inhabits large freshwater rivers and lakes in Southeast Asia, such as the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins, preferring slow-moving waters with sandy or muddy substrates. It is commonly found in floodplain areas and reservoirs, avoiding fast currents and thriving in warm tropical environments. Geographic preferences include Thailand, Borneo, Sumatra, and the Malay Peninsula.
Diet
The Thai shark catfish feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates like insects, crustaceans, and worms, as well as small fish and plant matter. It is a nocturnal bottom-feeder, using its barbels to detect and consume prey in low-light conditions. Feeding activity peaks at night in deeper waters or along riverbeds.
Behavior
This catfish is primarily nocturnal and solitary, spending daylight hours hidden in substrates or under cover to avoid predators. It exhibits minimal territorial behavior but may become more active during the wet season for feeding and migration. In captivity, it shows curiosity towards food sources but generally remains reclusive.
Conservation Status
Listed as UN-KNOWN-- MORE INFO NEEDED. by IUCN.