Fin's Fish Guide
The Black catfish (Clariallabes melas) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Central Africa: lower and middle reaches of the Congo basin, in forest streams.
Description
Clariallabes melas is an air-breathing catfish (family Clariidae) of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 26 cm and has an elongate, scaleless body with a flattened head, barbels and a dark colour. It lives demersally in fresh water, especially in forest streams. Like other clariids it can gulp air with an accessory breathing organ and so tolerate low-oxygen conditions. Its diet consists of decaying plant material and insect larvae, making it an omnivorous detritivore. The species is resilient, harmless to humans and of little commercial value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black catfish?
The Black catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Air-breathing catfish that tolerates oxygen-poor water; elongated scaleless body with barbels.
Where does the Black catfish live?
The Black catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central Africa: lower and middle reaches of the Congo basin, in forest streams.
How big does the Black catfish get?
The Black catfish grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Black catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black catfish edible?
The Black catfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Black catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Clariallabes
More from the family Clariidae
Want the complete picture on the Black catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.