The Broadhead catfish (Clariallabes platyprosopos) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The broadhead catfish is an air-breathing catfish from southern Africa, in the upper Zambezi and the Okavango system. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, dark-brown, scaleless body with a broad, flattened head, barbels and long, continuous dorsal and anal fins. Like other airbreathing catfishes it can gulp air with an accessory breathing organ and so tolerate oxygen-poor water. It lives in rocky rapids of large rivers and hunts fish. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broadhead catfish?
The Broadhead catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Broadhead catfish live?
The Broadhead catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Broadhead catfish get?
The Broadhead catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Broadhead catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Broadhead catfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Broadhead catfish edible?
Yes, the Broadhead catfish is commonly eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Clariallabes
More from the family Clariidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.