Wels Catfish

Distribution: Eastern Europe and Asia; introduced in some Western European countries. Size: Typically around 3 m, but can reach up to 5 m Size at maturity: 86 and 108 cm Maturity: 3 to 4 years Life expectancy: Around 30 years Diet: Carnivorous Social life: Solitary IUCN red list status: Least Concern The wels catfish (*Silurus glanis*) is a freshwater fish renowned for its impressive size, reaching weights of up to 200 kg. Despite its large dimensions, the Wels catfish is distinguished within the Siluridae family by having the smallest dorsal fin, only two pairs of barbels, and separate caudal and anal fins. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, though it is subtle. Female wels catfish have a short, thick flap of skin behind the vent, while males have a thinner flap. Females produce approximately 30,000 eggs per kilogram of their body mass. Fertilization is external, and the eggs hatch within 3 to 10 days. Because of its popularity in sport fishing, the wels catfish has been introduced in several countries, causing population declines in local species. In Europe, however, the introduction of wels catfish is now prohibited.