Walking catfish

Clarias batrachus-ZOO.Brno

Clari batra 110829-16992 jtg

Clari batra 110829-16975 jtg

মাগুর মাছের অতিরিক্ত শ্বাসযন্ত্র

Phalacrocorax auritusPCCA20060128-2198A

Pecel Lele 1

Walking catfish (Clarias batrachus) is a species of freshwater airbreathing catfish native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its ability to "walk" on land, using its pectoral fins to move and its ability to breathe air, allowing it to survive out of water for extended periods. This unique adaptation has made it a successful invasive species in various parts of the world.

Description[edit | edit source]

The walking catfish has an elongated body with a smooth, scaleless skin. It is typically gray or brown in color, with a lighter underside. The fish can grow up to 60 cm (24 inches) in length. It has a broad, flat head with a wide mouth and four pairs of barbels around the mouth, which are sensory organs that help it locate food.

Habitat and Distribution[edit | edit source]

Walking catfish are native to the freshwater environments of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. They inhabit a variety of water bodies, such as rivers, ponds, swamps, and rice paddies. The species has been introduced to other regions, including the United States, where it has become an invasive species, particularly in Florida.

Behavior[edit | edit source]

Walking catfish are known for their ability to move across land, especially during wet weather or when their aquatic habitat dries up. They use their pectoral fins to "walk" and can travel considerable distances in search of new water sources. This behavior is facilitated by their ability to breathe atmospheric air, thanks to a specialized structure called the suprabranchial organ.

Diet[edit | edit source]

Walking catfish are omnivorous and have a varied diet that includes small fish, crustaceans, insects, and plant matter. They are opportunistic feeders and can adapt to different food sources depending on availability.

Reproduction[edit | edit source]

The breeding season for walking catfish typically occurs during the rainy season. Females lay eggs in nests constructed in shallow water, and both parents guard the eggs until they hatch. The young catfish are capable of air-breathing shortly after hatching, which aids in their survival in fluctuating water conditions.

Impact as an Invasive Species[edit | edit source]

In regions where walking catfish have been introduced, they have had significant ecological impacts. Their ability to move across land and colonize new water bodies allows them to outcompete native species for resources. In Florida, for example, they have disrupted local ecosystems and posed challenges for fisheries management.