Fin's Fish Guide
The Widehead catfish (Clarotes laticeps) is a freshwater fish of the family Claroteidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The widehead catfish is a catfish (Claroteidae) from large rivers and lakes of Africa, including the Nile and Niger. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a stocky, grey-brown body with a broad, flat head, long barbels and an adipose fin. As a nocturnal bottom predator it searches turbid water for fish, crustaceans, molluscs and insects. The stout, serrated dorsal and pectoral spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Widehead catfish?
The Widehead catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Broad, flattened head; large bottom predator with sharp fin spines.
Where does the Widehead catfish live?
The Widehead catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West, Central and Northeast Africa; Nile and large river systems.
How big does the Widehead catfish get?
The Widehead catfish grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Widehead catfish dangerous to humans?
The Widehead catfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
Is the Widehead catfish edible?
Yes, the Widehead 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 Clarotes
More from the family Claroteidae
Want the complete picture on the Widehead catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Widehead catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.