Fin's Fish Guide
The African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 170 cm.
Pan-African (absent from the Maghreb, Upper and Lower Guinea and the Cape Province); also in the Middle East.
Description
The North African catfish is a large freshwater catfish of the family Clariidae reaching about 170 cm. The elongate, mottled-brown body has very long dorsal and anal fins, four pairs of barbels around the broad mouth and a rounded tail. A distinctive accessory air-breathing organ above the gills lets the fish gulp air and even crawl over land to reach new water. Native to Africa, the species has been introduced worldwide for aquaculture and is locally invasive. It is a nocturnal omnivore eating crustaceans, insects, fish, plankton and plant material. The North African catfish is an important aquaculture species across many regions.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African catfish?
The African catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Robust catfish with a very long dorsal and anal fin, four pairs of barbels and an additional air-breathing organ with which it can crawl over land.
Where does the African catfish live?
The African catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Pan-African (absent from the Maghreb, Upper and Lower Guinea and the Cape Province); also in the Middle East.
How big does the African catfish get?
The African catfish grows to a maximum of about 170 cm. On average the species is around 90 cm.
Is the African catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the African catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African catfish edible?
Yes, the African catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Clarias
More from the family Clariidae
Want the complete picture on the African catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.