![]() ![]() Most of the species that we’re largely familiar with as food have non-lethal stings, but there is always the risk of injury. So what does make catfish dangerous? Among the vertebrate orders, Siluriformes contains the highest number of venomous species because around half of them possess venomous spines! The next time you go on an angling trip or attempt to handle these seemingly harmless fish, take extra caution. These generally function as scrapers rather than weapons for attack. Some species have an impressive number of conical or villiform teeth, which are arranged in bands throughout their oral cavities. To an extent, this may afford catfish defensive protection, but it doesn’t allow them to take an offensive stance against potential threats. In some families, the skin is coated with dermal plates that serve as some form of body armor. They are known for their whisker-like barbels and flattened skulls, which enhance their feeding capabilities in the benthic reaches of the water column.Īs they are scaleless, catfish have evolved to respire through their skin. Most of these ray-finned species reside in freshwater bodies, and many are commercially important as food or aquarium fish. Kelly McCarthy / CC BY-SA 2.0įound all across the globe, catfish species are so diverse and numerous that they belong to their own order, Siluriformes. ![]() 1.6 The Final Verdict Catfish have flattened skulls & whisker-like barbels that help them to feed in the benthic zone. ![]()
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