Fin's Fish Guide
The Dhont's catfish (Clarias dhonti) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
Dhont's catfish is an African catfish of the family Clariidae from the eastern Congo basin. The species has an elongate, scaleless body with a flattened head, four pairs of barbels and long dorsal and anal fins reaching to near the tail. Like other Clarias species it possesses a tree-like accessory breathing organ with which it can breathe air and so survive in oxygen-poor water. As an omnivore it searches the bottom for invertebrates, small fishes and plant matter. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dhont's catfish?
The Dhont's catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Tree-like accessory breathing organ for air breathing; bottom-dweller of the Congo basin.
Where does the Dhont's catfish live?
The Dhont's catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Congo basin in Central Africa; rivers and lakes.
How big does the Dhont's catfish get?
The Dhont's catfish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Dhont's catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dhont's catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dhont's catfish edible?
Yes, the Dhont's catfish is commonly eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Dhont's catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dhont's catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Dhont's catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dhont's catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.