Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Clarias fuscus) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Hong Kong catfish is an Asian catfish of the family Clariidae from fresh water in southern China and surrounding areas. The species has an elongate, dark-brown body with barbels and reaches about 25 cm. Like other air-breathing catfishes it can gulp air thanks to an accessory breathing organ, an adaptation to oxygen-poor water. It inhabits streams, ponds, ditches and reservoirs, shelters by day under dense vegetation and hunts at night for small fishes, worms, crustaceans and insects. The fin spines are venomous and can cause painful wounds. The species is locally farmed and eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Accessory breathing organ for breathing air; venomous fin spines; nocturnal.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of southern China, Taiwan, Vietnam and the Philippines.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
The Catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Be careful of the fin spines, which can carry venom and cause painful puncture wounds. Clean the wound and immerse it in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 °C) to break down the venom; seek medical help in case of severe pain, swelling or an allergic reaction.
Is the Catfish edible?
The Catfish is rarely eaten.
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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 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.