Mary Allen
Introduction: What is the Wels Catfish?
The Wels Catfish, scientifically known as Silurus glanis, is a large freshwater fish that belongs to the family of catfishes. It is one of the largest freshwater fish species in Europe and can grow up to 5 meters in length and weigh up to 300 kg. The Wels Catfish is found in rivers and lakes across Europe and Asia, and it is highly valued by anglers for its size and strength.
Taxonomy and Distribution of the Wels Catfish
The Wels Catfish belongs to the order Siluriformes, which includes over 3,000 species of catfishes. It is classified under the family of Siluridae, which includes other catfish species such as the European catfish and the Wells catfish. The Wels Catfish is distributed across Europe and Asia, from the Rhine river in western Europe to the Amur river in eastern Asia. It is found in rivers and lakes, and it can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, from warm and shallow to cold and deep waters. In some areas, the Wels Catfish has been introduced as a sport fish, and it has become invasive in some parts of the world.