Family: Clariidae, Labyrinth Catfishes view all from this family
Description To 14" (36 cm). Elongate, broad anteriorly, compressed posteriorly; body dark brown to olive above, lighter below; frequent albino populations white to pinkish. 4 pairs of barbels. Pectoral fins with 1 spine; 8-11 rays; dorsal fin long, 60-75 rays; anal fin long, 47-58 rays; dorsal and anal fins not joined to caudal fin.
Habitat Lakes, swamps, and canals with little or no current, over mud with debris and aquatic plants.
Range Established in S. Florida; introduced in Georgia, Nevada, and California.
Discussion The Walking Catfish, brought into the United States by the exotic fish business, escaped or was released from fish farms in southern Florida. It has spread rapidly, damaging native fishes in areas where this species has become established.
