Catfish are easy to spot thanks to their unique “whiskers,” called barbels, which help them feel and taste their way through muddy waters. These bottom-dwelling fish live in freshwater rivers, lakes, and ponds all around the world. They’re known for their tough skin, lack of scales, and ability to thrive in murky environments where other fish might struggle.
Catfish come in all sizes—from small aquarium pets to giant species that can weigh hundreds of pounds! They feed on plants, insects, smaller fish, and just about anything they can find on the riverbed.
Fun Fact
Some catfish can “walk” short distances on land by wiggling their bodies and using their fins! The walking catfish, for example, can survive out of water for hours and move between ponds during the rainy season.
