Fin's Fish Guide
The Thys' catfish (Chrysichthys thysi) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Thys' catfish is an African claroteid catfish (Claroteidae) from rivers and lakes of West 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 Thys' catfish?
The Thys' catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Barbels and an adipose fin; sharp pectoral and dorsal fin spines that can cause injuries.
Where does the Thys' catfish live?
The Thys' catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central Africa; Congo basin.
How big does the Thys' catfish get?
The Thys' catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Thys' catfish dangerous to humans?
The Thys' 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 Thys' catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Thys' catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.