What characteristic unites *S. glanis* as a member of the family Siluridae?

Answer

Lacking scales and possessing prominent sensory barbels

The Wels Catfish belongs specifically to the family Siluridae, which is defined by a set of shared morphological traits distinguishing it within the broader category of freshwater fishes. The two most prominent characteristics associated with this family are the absence of scales on the body, resulting in smooth skin, and the presence of prominent sensory barbels around the mouth area. These barbels are crucial sensory organs, packed with chemoreceptors and mechanoreceptors, facilitating the catfish's ambush predation style in low-visibility waters. The combination of scalelessness and specialized barbels is the defining feature separating this group.

What characteristic unites *S. glanis* as a member of the family Siluridae?

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The Secret Hunting System of the Wels Catfish | Ep 1 - YouTube

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