Fin's Fish Guide
The Broadhead catfish (Clariallabes platyprosopos) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The broadhead catfish is an air-breathing catfish from southern Africa, in the upper Zambezi and the Okavango system. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, dark-brown, scaleless body with a broad, flattened head, barbels and long, continuous dorsal and anal fins. Like other airbreathing catfishes it can gulp air with an accessory breathing organ and so tolerate oxygen-poor water. It lives in rocky rapids of large rivers and hunts fish. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broadhead catfish?
The Broadhead catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Broad flattened head and barbels; air-breathing, inhabits rocky rapids
Where does the Broadhead catfish live?
The Broadhead catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Zambezi and Okavango system
How big does the Broadhead catfish get?
The Broadhead catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Broadhead catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Broadhead catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Broadhead catfish edible?
Yes, the Broadhead 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 Clariallabes
More from the family Clariidae
Want the complete picture on the Broadhead catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broadhead catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.