Fin's Fish Guide
The Werner's catfish (Clarias werneri) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
Werner's catfish is an air-breathing catfish (Clariidae) from the fresh waters of Africa. The species has an elongate, scaleless body with a flattened head, four pairs of barbels and a long dorsal fin; it has a tree-shaped gill organ with which it can breathe air and thus survive oxygen-poor water. It inhabits lakes and rivers. As a predator it feeds mainly on insects: aquatic and terrestrial beetles and their larvae. The stout pectoral fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Werner's catfish?
The Werner's catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Tree-like gill organ for breathing air; insect-eater with sturdy pectoral fin spines.
Where does the Werner's catfish live?
The Werner's catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of Africa; lakes and rivers.
How big does the Werner's catfish get?
The Werner's catfish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Werner's catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Werner's catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound when handled. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Werner's catfish edible?
Yes, the Werner's catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Werner's catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Werner's catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.