catfish

a cat fish

a kind of fish – a general name given to any of the bony fish without scales; four pairs of barbels (= soft, fleshy finger-like growth, like the whiskers of a cat) around the mouth part; as there are about 3,020 species (kinds) of catfish, they vary hugely in length and weight; lives mostly in fresh water, but some species (kinds) are found in salt water also; found all over the world, except Antarctica

a catfish’s head

Some popular names of catfish are: Wels catfish, Mekong giant catfish, Aristotle’s catfish, channel catfish, walking catfish, talking catfish, shark catfish, banjo catfish, long-whiskered catfish, flathead catfish, white catfish, blue catfish, Corydoras or Cory catfish, etc.

Special Features:

catfish as food

The ‘channel catfish’ is the state fish of Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska, USA.

The catfish is a popular food fish, sport fish and aquarium (pet) fish.

Though it looks ugly with its flat head and four pairs of barbels around its mouth, it is attractive in a way, but some fish experts call it a ‘repulsive-looking creature’, ‘scavenger’ fish of the river bottoms!

a huge catfish

As there are so many species (kinds), the length and weight range widely: the smallest species (kind) 1 inch in length to the largest 8 feet in length, and over 100 Kg. in weight – the Mekong giant catfish weighed 239 Kg. setting the world record in fresh water fish world!

Catfish are high in vitamin D.

There are catfish which walk, and some can even talk, making ‘creaking’ sounds when disturbed.

For an interesting article on catfish in the States, please click here.

About the Author:BC Kumar

BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.

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