Gymnallabes typus (Flat head Eel catfish)

Gymnallabes typus

(Source: Kaukonen, 2005)

Scientific Name: Gymnallabes typus

Common Name: Flat head Eel catfish

Genus: Gymnallabes

Species: typus

Ijaw Name: Alomo -yin

Family: Clariidae

Habitat: Lakes

Gear Type: Fishing Traps

Season of Occurrence: Dry/Rainy season

Description: The Flathead Catfish is distinguished by its broad, flat head and extended lower jaw. Its coloring is generally a mottled pattern of brown, olive, or yellow, helping it blend with its surroundings. Adult Flathead Catfish can reach impressive sizes, sometimes over 50 inches (127 cm) in length and weighing up to 60 pounds (27 kg). This nocturnal predator inhabits rivers and lakes, where it uses submerged structures like logs or rocks to ambush prey. Its diet mainly consists of fish, and it thrives in areas with sufficient cover and stable oxygen levels.