Catfish
African catfish (Clarias)
The freshwater fish is characterized by its robustness and rapid growth. Another distinctive feature is that the African catfish is able to breathe air.
Aquaculture production of African catfish (Clarias spp.) has increased significantly in recent years and currently stands at about 1.6 million metric tons per year (FAO, 2026). In Germany, about 372 tons of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) were produced in 2023 (FIZ, 2024). This places catfish in the medium range of fish species produced in Germany (FIZ, 2024). Worldwide, production takes place in various production systems, from pond systems to recirculation systems.
Sources and detailed scientific information on catfish can be found at:
Pangasius
Few bones, a wide food spectrum and comparatively easy farming make pangasius a popular fish for aquaculture. In 2024, about 3.2 million tons of pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) were produced worldwide (FAO, 2026), a large proportion of which was produced in Vietnam. The fish species, native to Southeast Asia, lives in freshwater. Breeding takes place in net pens, quangs (cordoned-off river areas) and pond facilities.