Type species of Encheloclarias, originally described in the genus Heterobranchus by Bleeker (1852/1853). Eel-like airbreathing clariid catfish, part of a genus specialized for life buried deep within peat swamp substrate. Historically also reported from Borneo, but those populations are now recognized as the distinct species E. baculum — narrowing this species' confirmed range to just Bangka and Sumatra. Population in steep decline, primarily from peat swamp habitat loss.
Category: Catfish
Global Region: Asia
Distribution: Bangka Island and Sumatra, Indonesia
CARES Classification: Vulnerable
groverlee: Encheloclarias tapeinopterus