Fin's Fish Guide
The Flathead claroteid catfish (Bathybagrus platycephalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The flathead claroteid catfish is an African catfish of the family Claroteidae endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 22 cm and has a streamlined body with a flattened head, barbels, an adipose fin and stout fin spines. It lives on the bottom of the lake at depths between 20 and 110 metres. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small invertebrates, molluscs and small fishes. Like other catfishes the sharp pectoral and dorsal spines can give painful puncture wounds, so careful handling is advised. The species is a local food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flathead claroteid catfish?
The Flathead claroteid catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Flattened head and sharp fin spines; deep-water bottom catfish of Lake Tanganyika.
Where does the Flathead claroteid catfish live?
The Flathead claroteid catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; bottom at 20-110 m depth.
How big does the Flathead claroteid catfish get?
The Flathead claroteid catfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Flathead claroteid catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Flathead claroteid catfish is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Flathead claroteid catfish edible?
The Flathead claroteid catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Flathead claroteid catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flathead claroteid 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 Bathybagrus
More from the family Claroteidae
Want the complete picture on the Flathead claroteid catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flathead claroteid catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.