The "slobbering catfish" is not a widely recognized common name in ichthyology, but it may refer to large, mucus-producing catfish species such as the Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) of Europe or the Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas) of Southeast Asia. These catfish are known for their impressive size, whiskered appearance, and sometimes copious slime production, which helps protect them from parasites and injury. The top countries involved in harvesting large catfish species include China, Vietnam, Thailand, and India, where catfish farming and wild capture are significant components of the fishing industry. In Europe, countries like Hungary, Germany, and Russia are notable for their Wels catfish fisheries, both for sport and commercial purposes. The catfish industry in these regions supports local economies through aquaculture, export, and recreational fishing, making catfish one of the most important freshwater fish groups globally.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colombia | 350 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.