Fin's Fish Guide
The Stappers' catfish (Bathybagrus stappersii) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
Stappers' catfish is a catfish endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 45 cm and has an elongate, scaleless, greyish body with barbels and an adipose fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lives in deeper lake water and searches for small fish, crustaceans and invertebrates. The strong fin spines can prick. It is a local food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Stappers' catfish?
The Stappers' catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Barbels and adipose fin; nocturnal deeper-water lake catfish
Where does the Stappers' catfish live?
The Stappers' catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Tanganyika (endemic)
How big does the Stappers' catfish get?
The Stappers' catfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Stappers' catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Stappers' catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Stappers' catfish edible?
Yes, the Stappers' catfish is commonly eaten.
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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 Stappers' catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Stappers' catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.