What is the distinguishing size difference between *Clarias batrachus* and *Clarias gariepinus*?
*C. batrachus* stays under one foot, while *C. gariepinus* can grow over five feet.
A significant physical distinction between the walking catfish (*C. batrachus*) and its relative, the African Sharptooth Catfish (*C. gariepinus*), lies in their maximum potential size. *Clarias batrachus* is well-established within the size range of under one foot, typically maxing out around 14 inches. In stark contrast, *Clarias gariepinus* is known to grow significantly larger, with documented specimens reaching lengths exceeding five feet (or 60 inches). While both species share the crucial adaptation of the labyrinth organ, recognizing this massive disparity in typical adult size serves as a simple method for distinguishing which invasive *Clarias* species might be encountered in a new region.

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Walking Catfish Facts: a FISH that WALKS | Animal Fact Files