Fin's Fish Guide
The Cameroon clariid catfish (Clarias camerunensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 47 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, swamps and forest pools.
Description
The Cameroon clariid catfish is an eel-like air-breathing catfish of the family Clariidae reaching about 47 cm. The elongate, scaleless body has four pairs of barbels around the broad mouth and a very long dorsal and anal fin. Like other Clarias species it has a tree-shaped accessory breathing organ above the gills with which it can breathe air, allowing it to survive in oxygen-poor swamp water and even crawl over land for short periods to reach new water. The species comes from West and Central Africa and lives in slow water of rivers, swamps and forest pools. As an omnivore it eats insects, worms, crustaceans, small fish and plant matter. It is a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cameroon clariid catfish?
The Cameroon clariid catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Eel-like air-breathing catfish with four pairs of barbels and a long dorsal fin; can survive out of the water using an accessory breathing organ.
Where does the Cameroon clariid catfish live?
The Cameroon clariid catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, swamps and forest pools.
How big does the Cameroon clariid catfish get?
The Cameroon clariid catfish grows to a maximum of about 47 cm.
Is the Cameroon clariid catfish dangerous to humans?
The Cameroon clariid catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. The pectoral fins bear stout, serrated spines that can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle a caught animal carefully and clean any wound.
Is the Cameroon clariid catfish edible?
Yes, the Cameroon clariid catfish is a highly prized food fish.
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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 Cameroon clariid catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cameroon clariid catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.