Top Electric Catfish Fishing Countries

The electric catfish, primarily of the genus *Malapterurus*, is a unique freshwater species native to Africa, distinguished by its ability to generate strong electric shocks for defense and hunting. These fish inhabit slow-moving rivers, lakes, and swamps across central and western Africa, with the Nile, Niger, and Congo river basins being notable habitats. The top countries involved in the fishing and harvesting of electric catfish include Nigeria, Egypt, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the species is caught both for local consumption and, to a lesser extent, for the aquarium trade. While not a major commercial species compared to tilapia or Nile perch, electric catfish are valued in some regions for their taste and are often caught using traditional fishing methods. The fishing industry surrounding electric catfish is largely artisanal, supporting local livelihoods rather than large-scale export markets.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.