Titan Catfish (tai-tn kat-fish)
Basic Information
Anatomy
The Titan catfish's external and internal anatomy is very similar to one of any other catfish, with a cylindrical body and a flattened ventral. What makes it stand out from the other specimens however is its saturated, red striped pattern spreading across its back and its thick, numerous barbels on its snout. The thick and sensitive barbels help it detect movement easier as its eyesight is mediocre.
What makes this catfish's anatomy even more unique than any other member of its family is its set of razor-sharp teeth. It helps it easily shred its prey as it hunts large animals. So far, no catfish has been observed to possess teeth in Elarium, besides the goonch catfish.
Genetics and Reproduction
The spawning season of the titan catfish usually occurs between May and July. Females lay their eggs in water temperatures above 22°C. Their eggs are 1,2cm in diameter, usually laid in a large egg mass. Embryos hatch in 8 to 10 days.
Ecology and Habitats
The titan catfish is native to the Lavida river of Qiadiorah, however, they are often spotted swimming in the sea. They do not mind spending time in saltwater as they are an anadromous species.
Dietary Needs and Habits
The titan catfish is an apex predator of the Lavida river. Specimens have been observed to prey on piranhas, leeches, other catfish, sometimes even caimans. When swimming is the sea, they are capable of hunting smaller sharks and eels.
Additional Information
Domestication
The titan catfish is one of the few fish that man has managed to domesticate. It has a variety of uses; one of its main purpose is transportation and resource carriage. Its sheer strength allows it to carry not only a rider but tons of materials on its back. It can be used as a replacement for a boat if you need to go on a quick expedition. Because of its ability to swim in both freshwater and saltwater, Qiadioran fishermen use this creature as a way of traveling straight to the ocean through the river quickly whether they need to get some saltwater seafood. It’s also used for pest control against threats like leeches or crocodilians.
Uses, Products & Exploitation
While not commonly slaughtered for its meat as it’s difficult to clean and prepare, the titan catfish caviar is surely a delicacy of Qiadiorah! It has a salty taste and is high in healthful fatty acids that reduce inflammation. Not only used in dishes, it’s also a healthy snack!
Average Intelligence
The titan catfish is estimated to be the most intelligent fish in the Qiadiorahian waters. Numerous studies have shown that this fish can retain information for years. It can be taught to obey commands, such as to attack a target, follow, swim to a specific location, pick up an object, even simply silly ones like to splash its fins. There is evidence of juvenile titan catfish using observational learning in their investigation of novel objects in their environment.
Scientific Name
Silurus Lavida
Lifespan
80 years
Conservation Status
Least concern
Average Weight
540kg / 1200lbs
Average Length
16ft / 5m
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
dark-green scales with saturated, red stripes and a white underbelly
Geographic Distribution
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