Fin's Fish Guide
The Tanganyika claroteid catfish (Bathybagrus sianenna) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
Bathybagrus sianenna is a catfish of the family Claroteidae endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has an elongate body with barbels and is specialised for a life on sandy bottoms; it reaches about 23 cm. It occurs to about 150 metres deep, but is most common in the sublittoral zone, and is especially abundant in deeper water. As a bottom dweller it feeds on invertebrates and small bottom animals. Like many catfishes it bears strong fin spines. The species is of local importance for subsistence fisheries and is eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tanganyika claroteid catfish?
The Tanganyika claroteid catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Specialised on the sandy bottoms of Lake Tanganyika; numerous in deeper water.
Where does the Tanganyika claroteid catfish live?
The Tanganyika claroteid catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Tanganyika claroteid catfish get?
The Tanganyika claroteid catfish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Tanganyika claroteid catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Tanganyika claroteid 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 Tanganyika claroteid catfish edible?
Yes, the Tanganyika claroteid 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 Tanganyika claroteid catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tanganyika claroteid catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.