Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Anarhichas minor) is a saltwater fish of the family Anarhichadidae that grows up to 180 cm.
Description
The spotted wolffish is a fish of the wolffish family (Anarhichadidae) from the northern Atlantic Ocean. The species can grow to over a metre and has an elongate, eel-like body with a large head and powerful jaws full of blunt crushing and grasping teeth, with which it crushes hard-shelled prey. It inhabits soft bottoms, often with boulders, at about 25 to 590 m deep, most common between 100 and 400 m. It feeds on echinoderms, molluscs and crustaceans. Not venomous, but the powerful jaws can give a nasty bite if handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Powerful jaws with blunt molar teeth for crushing crustaceans; large cold-water bottom fish.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Atlantic; soft bottoms with boulders.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 180 cm. On average the species is around 120 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the powerful jaws with strong teeth can give a nasty bite; handle a caught specimen with care and keep fingers away from the mouth. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Catfish edible?
Yes, the 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 Anarhichas
More from the family Anarhichadidae
Want the complete picture on the Catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.