A large Order of fish with between ~3,000 and ~4,000 species found around the world in both fresh and sea water (many yet to be discovered). They have been on the planet in various forms since the Cretaceous Period (~80 million years ago).
Catfish are recognisable by their whiskers (barbels protuding their mouth under their chin) which resemble cats, hence their name. They have long snake like bodies and flattened heads.
In Australia there is one family with 2 key species that we see in Sydney from the family Plotosidae. More information and pictures can be found at the pages below'.