Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Parauchenoglanis altipinnis) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The catfish is an African catfish (Claroteidae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has an elongate, scaleless body with a flattened head, three pairs of barbels, an adipose fin and stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines. It lives bottom-bound in rivers and searches by touch for insect larvae, molluscs, small fishes and plant matter. The stout fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when 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. Bottom-probing banded catfish of the Congo basin with three pairs of barbels and stinging fin spines.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Congo basin in Central Africa; rivers, bottom-dwelling.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout 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 Catfish edible?
Yes, the Catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Parauchenoglanis
More from the family Claroteidae
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.