Fin's Fish Guide
The Broadhead catfish (Chrysichthys laticeps) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Freshwater of Africa; Nilo-Sudanic basins and East Africa; rivers and lakes.
Description
The broadhead catfish is an African catfish (Claroteidae) from the fresh waters of Africa (Nile, Niger, Senegal, Volta and Lake Chad basins and East Africa). The species has an elongate, scaleless body with a relatively broad, flattened head, an adipose fin, barbels and stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines. It lives on the bottom of rivers and lakes, where it forages at night. As an omnivore it searches with its barbels for insect larvae, crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. The stout, serrated fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
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 sturdy fin spines; nocturnal bottom catfish of the Nilo-Sudanic basins.
Where does the Broadhead catfish live?
The Broadhead catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of Africa; Nilo-Sudanic basins and East Africa; rivers and lakes.
How big does the Broadhead catfish get?
The Broadhead catfish grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Broadhead catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Broadhead catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Broadhead catfish edible?
Yes, the Broadhead catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chrysichthys
More from the family Claroteidae
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.