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Wels catfish
Wels
Scientific name: Silurus glanis
NativeFreshwater
Behavior
Solitary, prefers large, warm lakes and slow-flowing, deep rivers. Hides in riverbed cavities or under submerged wood by day, a nocturnal hunter.
Features
One of Europe's largest freshwater fish. Slender, scaleless skin, broad head, very large mouth with six barbels. Optimal temperature 25-27°C.
Distribution
Native from Germany (east of the Rhine) through eastern Europe and western Asia; now introduced widely across western Europe. In Germany mainly in larger rivers and lakes.