Fin's Fish Guide
The Bighead catfish (Clarias macrocephalus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The bighead catfish is an air-breathing catfish (Clariidae) from Southeast Asia. The species has an elongate, scaleless, dark body with a broad, flattened head, four pairs of barbels and a long dorsal fin; like related airbreathing catfishes it has a tree-shaped gill organ with which it can breathe air. It inhabits lowland wetlands and rivers and is farmed in rice fields among other places. As an omnivore it eats insects, small invertebrates, small fishes and plant matter. The stout pectoral fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bighead catfish?
The Bighead catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Broad head and a tree-like gill organ for breathing air; food catfish farmed in rice fields.
Where does the Bighead catfish live?
The Bighead catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia; lowland swamps and rivers.
How big does the Bighead catfish get?
The Bighead catfish grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the Bighead catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bighead catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound when handled. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Bighead catfish edible?
Yes, the Bighead catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Clarias
More from the family Clariidae
Want the complete picture on the Bighead catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bighead catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.