Fin's Fish Guide
The Akiri catfish (Notoglanidium akiri) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The Akiri catfish is a claroteid catfish (Claroteidae) from rivers, streams and swamps of West Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, scaleless, grey-brown body with four pairs of barbels, an adipose fin and stout spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for insect larvae, worms, snails and small fish. The fin spines can give a painful puncture wound if handled carelessly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Akiri catfish?
The Akiri catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Nocturnal bottom-dwelling catfish of West Africa with serrated fin spines; threatened by habitat loss.
Where does the Akiri catfish live?
The Akiri catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of West Africa; river bottoms.
How big does the Akiri catfish get?
The Akiri catfish grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Akiri catfish dangerous to humans?
The Akiri catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a puncture or cut from a fin spine: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and remove any visible fragments. Cover and keep clean. For a deep wound, a retained spine or signs of infection see a doctor and check tetanus status.
Is the Akiri catfish edible?
Yes, the Akiri catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Notoglanidium
More from the family Claroteidae
Want the complete picture on the Akiri catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Akiri catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.