Fin's Fish Guide
The Panther catfish (Parauchenoglanis pantherinus) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Description
The panther catfish is a catfish (Claroteidae) from fresh water of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a sturdy, brown body with large dark blotches, a broad flattened head and three pairs of barbels. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for insect larvae, molluscs and small fish. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Panther catfish?
The Panther catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Catfish with a panther-like blotched pattern; sturdy pectoral and dorsal fin spines.
Where does the Panther catfish live?
The Panther catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central Africa, in rivers and streams of the Congo basin.
How big does the Panther catfish get?
The Panther catfish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Panther catfish dangerous to humans?
The Panther catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp fin spine: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Check that no spine fragment remains and watch for signs of infection; for a deep wound update tetanus protection.
Is the Panther catfish edible?
The Panther catfish is rarely 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 Panther catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Panther catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.