What does it look like?
Along with their whisker-like barbels, catfish have sharp spines at the front of their pectoral and pelvic fins, which makes them difficult to handle.
In New Zealand, catfish commonly grow to around 30 centimetres long and can weigh up to two kilograms. They’re extremely hardy, able to tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and survive in poor water quality. Catfish can also live out of water for long periods and are very difficult to kill.
Why is it a problem?
Catfish stir up sediment and prey on small native fish, fish, eggs, and are known to eat and compete with koura (native freshwater crayfish).
Control methods
All catfish must be killed on capture and not returned to the water alive. Contact Ministry of Primary Industries first then call us on 06 835 9200.
Related links
Brown bullhead catfish found in Lake Taupo
Fish and Game NZ - coarse fish species
Rules
Section 26ZM of the Conservation Act (1987)
In accordance with the Conservation Act 1987 section 26ZM, no person shall transfer live aquatic life or release live aquatic life into any freshwater. This includes native or introduced fish, plants, and invertebrates. The taking and holding of some organisms requires a special permit from MPI.
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