Fin's Fish Guide
The Blunttooth catfish (Clarias ngamensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 73 cm.
Southern and Central Africa, in weed beds, permanent swamps, calm waters and on muddy bottoms.
Description
The blunt-toothed African catfish is an air-breathing catfish (family Clariidae) of southern and central Africa. The species grows to about 73 cm and has an elongate, scaleless, brown mottled body with a flattened head, barbels and rounded, blunt teeth. It is nowhere especially abundant but is fairly common in weed beds, permanent swamps, quieter waters and on muddy bottoms. With an accessory breathing organ it can gulp air and tolerate low-oxygen water. As a predator it eats fishes, crustaceans and large invertebrates. The species is of commercial value; the fin spines can cause painful injuries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blunttooth catfish?
The Blunttooth catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Air-breathing catfish with rounded, blunt teeth; tolerates oxygen-poor water.
Where does the Blunttooth catfish live?
The Blunttooth catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern and Central Africa, in weed beds, permanent swamps, calm waters and on muddy bottoms.
How big does the Blunttooth catfish get?
The Blunttooth catfish grows to a maximum of about 73 cm.
Is the Blunttooth catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blunttooth catfish is harmless to humans. For a jab from the pectoral or dorsal fin spines: clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or inflammation increases.
Is the Blunttooth catfish edible?
Yes, the Blunttooth 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 Blunttooth catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blunttooth catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.