Wels catfish

Wels Catfish (Silurus glanis), also known as the sheatfish, is a large species of catfish native to wide areas of central, southern, and eastern Europe. It is among the largest freshwater fish in its region, and it is recognized for its elongated body and wide, flat head.

Description

The Wels Catfish's body is scaleless and usually dark grey or black on the back and sides with a lighter belly. The fish has a broad, flat head and wide mouth equipped with many small, sharp teeth. Its size can vary greatly; while most specimens are generally between 1.3 and 1.6 meters in length, some have been known to exceed 2.5 meters.

Habitat

Wels Catfish inhabit a variety of freshwater environments, but they prefer deep, slow-flowing rivers. They are also found in lakes and reservoirs. They are most commonly found in the basins of the Danube, Dnieper, and Volga Rivers.

Diet

The diet of the Wels Catfish is primarily carnivorous, feeding on a diet of fish, frogs, rodents, and water birds. They are known to be opportunistic feeders and have been reported to eat anything that they can overpower.

Reproduction

Wels Catfish spawn between the months of May and July when the water temperature is between 20 and 26 degrees Celsius. The female lays her eggs in a nest made by the male, who then guards them until they hatch.

Fishing

Wels Catfish are popular targets for sport fishing due to their size and strength. They are often caught using live or dead fish as bait.

Conservation

The Wels Catfish is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, habitat degradation and overfishing pose potential threats to their populations.

In culture

In some cultures, the Wels Catfish is considered a delicacy. In others, it is seen as a pest due to its voracious appetite and potential to deplete local fish stocks.