The walking catfish is an unusual air-breathing freshwater fish famous for moving across wet ground. Instead of truly walking, it wriggles its long body while using its strong pectoral fins for support. This ability allows it to leave shrinking ponds and search for another body of water. Native to tropical Asia, the fish has also … Read more
Saltwater catfish are marine and brackish-water fish recognized by their smooth, scaleless bodies, whisker-like barbels and sharp fin spines. They are common around bays, estuaries, beaches, river mouths and coastal waters in many warm regions. In Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, the hardhead and gafftopsail are the best-known species. Both can be eaten, but … Read more
The Mekong giant catfish is one of the world’s largest freshwater fish. Known scientifically as Pangasianodon gigas, this enormous, mostly toothless catfish is native only to Southeast Asia’s Mekong River basin. Adults can approach 10 feet in length and weigh hundreds of pounds, yet they primarily consume algae, plant material, and detritus. Despite its extraordinary … Read more
The panda cory catfish is a small, peaceful freshwater fish recognized by its pale body and bold black markings around the eyes, dorsal fin, and tail. Its panda-like appearance, gentle behavior, and active bottom-feeding habits make it popular in community aquariums. However, panda corys should not be treated as tank-cleaning tools. They need a proper … Read more
The hardhead catfish is a common saltwater catfish found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America. Recognizable by its deeply forked tail, six whisker-like barbels, and three sharp fin spines, this fish is frequently caught from beaches, piers, bridges, bays, and coastal waterways. Hardheads are edible, but many anglers release them because they … Read more
Armored catfish are unusual freshwater fish protected by rows of hard, bony plates instead of ordinary scales. The name commonly refers to suckermouth catfish in the family Loricariidae, including plecos and sailfin catfish. These South American fish are popular in aquariums because they graze on algae and have striking patterns. However, released pets have established … Read more
The red tail catfish is a massive freshwater fish recognized by its broad head, long whiskers, dark body, and bright orange-red tail. Juveniles may look manageable in pet stores, but they grow rapidly and eventually require an enormous custom aquarium or indoor pond. Keeping one successfully demands strong filtration, careful feeding, stable tropical water, and … Read more
Bullhead catfish are hardy freshwater fish recognized by their broad heads, smooth scaleless bodies, whisker-like barbels, and mostly square tail fins. Although smaller than channel and flathead catfish, bullheads are popular among anglers because they are widespread, easy to catch, and often active after dark. Several species occur across North America, including black, brown, and … Read more
Otocinclus catfish are tiny, peaceful freshwater fish valued for their ability to graze on soft algae and biofilm. Commonly called otos, dwarf suckers, or dwarf suckermouth catfish, they are especially popular in planted community aquariums. However, they are more sensitive than their “cleanup fish” reputation suggests. Otos need a mature aquarium, stable water, peaceful companions, … Read more
The wels catfish is a massive freshwater predator native to parts of Europe and western Asia. Recognized by its broad head, long barbels, scaleless body, and enormous mouth, it is among the largest freshwater fish associated with European rivers. Wels catfish inhabit deep rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and backwaters, where they hunt fish and other animals—usually … Read more