Catfish (siluriformes) of the order Siluriformes or Nematognathi, are a diverse group of ray-finned fish. Named for their prominent barbels which resemble a cat's whiskers, catfish range in size and behavior from the three largest species; the Mekong giant catfish from Southeast Asia, the wels catfish of Eurasia and the Piraíba of South America to detritivores (species that eat dead material on the bottom) and even to a tiny parasitic species commonly called the candiru, Vandellia cirrhosa.

They are of considerable commercial importance; many of the larger species are farmed or fished for food whilst the smaller species, particularly the genus Corydoras are important in the aquarium hobby.

Catfish is high in Vitamin D. Farm-raised catfish contain low levels of omega-3 fatty acids and a much higher proportion of omega-6 fatty acids.

In Nigeria catfish is often cooked in a variety of stews. It is particularly cooked in a delicacy popularly known as "Catfish Pepper Soup" which is enjoyed throughout the nation.

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