Fin's Fish Guide
The Tanganyika catfish (Chrysichthys dendrophorus) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The Tanganyika catfish is an African claroteid catfish (Claroteidae) from rivers and lakes of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a sturdy, scaleless, greyish body with four pairs of barbels, an adipose fin and a flattened head. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches over sand and mud for insect larvae, molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. It is locally an important food fish. The stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tanganyika catfish?
The Tanganyika catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Tanganyika catfish live?
The Tanganyika catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Congo, Congo Dem Rp
How big does the Tanganyika catfish get?
The Tanganyika catfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Tanganyika catfish dangerous to humans?
The Tanganyika 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chrysichthys
More from the family Claroteidae
Want the complete picture on the Tanganyika catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tanganyika catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.