eelcatfish

The eelcatfish, also known as the sneel or sneel catfish, is a family of freshwater catfishes (order Siluriformes) native to Africa. They are characterized by their elongated, eel-like bodies and their lack of scales. The family includes several genera and species, with the most common being members of the genus Clarias. These fish are found in a wide range of freshwater habitats, including rivers, lakes, swamps, and even stagnant pools.

Eelcatfishes are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders, consuming a diet that includes insects, crustaceans, smaller fish, and plant matter. They are known for their ability to breathe air, possessing an accessory respiratory organ that allows them to survive in oxygen-poor waters and even travel short distances over land during wet conditions. This adaptation contributes to their resilience and widespread distribution across the African continent.

Several species of eelcatfish are important food sources for local populations in Africa and are also farmed for aquaculture. Their ability to tolerate a variety of water conditions and their rapid growth rate make them attractive for cultivation. While generally considered a single family, taxonomic classifications can vary, and some sources may place them within broader catfish groupings.