When it comes to freshwater fish, catfish and sheatfish are often confused because they share some similarities. However, there are key differences in their appearance, habitat, and behavior. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you tell them apart:
1. Catfish
Physical Characteristics:
- Smooth, scaleless skin.
- Has several pairs of thick whiskers (barbels) around its mouth—usually 4 pairs (8 whiskers).
- Large, flat head.
- Body color ranges from dark gray to brownish-black.
- Sharp spines on the pectoral and pelvic fins for defense.
- Medium to large size depending on species.
Habitat:
- Found mainly in freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes, and paddy fields.
- Prefers muddy areas and sandy bottoms.
Diet:
- Omnivorous—feeds on small fish, insects, small animals, and organic matter.
Common Species:
- African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
- Malaysian Catfish (Clarias batrachus)
2. Sheatfish
Physical Characteristics:
- Smooth, scaleless skin.
- More and longer whiskers compared to catfish—usually 8 pairs (16 thin whiskers).
- Smaller, more pointed head.
- Lighter body color ranging from light brown to yellowish.
- Spines on pectoral and pelvic fins present but less sharp than catfish.
- Slimmer and longer body shape.
Habitat:
- Lives in freshwater and brackish water (mix of salt and fresh water).
- Commonly found in mangrove swamps, river estuaries, and slow-moving rivers.
Diet:
- Carnivorous—prefers small fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic animals.
Common Species:
- Local Sheatfish species (Pangasius spp.)
Comparison Table: Catfish vs Sheatfish
| Feature | Catfish | Sheatfish |
|---|---|---|
| Skin | Smooth, scaleless | Smooth, scaleless |
| Whiskers (Barbels) | 4 pairs (8 thick, short) | 8 pairs (16 thin, long) |
| Head Shape | Large and flat | Small and pointed |
| Body Color | Dark gray to brownish-black | Light brown to yellowish |
| Fin Spines | Sharp spines on pectoral & pelvic fins | Present but less sharp |
| Body Shape | Medium to large, stocky | Slimmer and longer |
| Habitat | Freshwater rivers, lakes, paddy fields | Freshwater & brackish waters |
| Diet | Omnivorous | Carnivorous |
Tiada ulasan:
Catat Ulasan