Fin's Fish Guide
The Claroteid catfish (Chrysichthys aluuensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Aluu claroteid catfish is an African catfish (Claroteidae) from the fresh waters of West Africa. The species has an elongate, scaleless body with an adipose fin, barbels and stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines. It lives bottom-bound in rivers and searches at night by touch for insect larvae, molluscs, small fishes and plant matter. Owing to a limited range and habitat loss the species is considered endangered. The stout, partly serrated fin spines can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Claroteid catfish?
The Claroteid catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Nocturnal bottom-dwelling catfish of West Africa with stinging fin spines; threatened by habitat loss.
Where does the Claroteid catfish live?
The Claroteid catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa; rivers, bottom-dwelling.
How big does the Claroteid catfish get?
The Claroteid catfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Claroteid catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Claroteid 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 Claroteid catfish edible?
Yes, the Claroteid 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 Chrysichthys
More from the family Claroteidae
Want the complete picture on the Claroteid catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Claroteid catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.