The maximum body length is 2 meters, the average is 80 cm. The maximum documented weight: 6 kg. There are 250-305 soft rays in the dorsal fin. In the anal fin 220-250 soft rays. The vertebrae are 106-112. Has an elongated body. The head is conical, flattened from above. A mouth with pouting lips is located at the end of the head. On the jaws the rows of teeth are narrow, on the opener there is a wide row of teeth.
The species is common in Asia: Pakistan , India , Sri Lanka and Myanmar . They are reported to be found in Nepal and Bangladesh .
They live in fresh waters, but spend the early stages of development in the sea and estuaries. It is found in fresh water bodies, rivers and lakes. The most common blackheads in Indian inland waters.
It is highly regarded as a food product. The slime of live fish mixed with rice or wheat flour is used as a treatment for arthritis .
