Fin's Fish Guide
The Short walking catfish (Clarias abbreviatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The short walking catfish is an air-breathing catfish (Clariidae) from swamps, pools and slow-flowing rivers of the Congo basin and Angola in Africa. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, dark body with a broad, flattened head, four pairs of barbels and an air-breathing organ with which it can survive in oxygen-poor water and briefly on land; thus it can 'walk' over moist ground. As a nocturnal omnivore it eats insects, worms, small fish and detritus. The stout pectoral spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Short walking catfish?
The Short walking catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Short walking catfish live?
The Short walking catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Macau
How big does the Short walking catfish get?
The Short walking catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Short walking catfish dangerous to humans?
The Short walking catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a cut or puncture from a sharp head or 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.
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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 Short walking catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Short walking catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.