Mahi-mahi vs Wels Catfish
Coryphaena hippurus compared with Silurus glanis
Taxonomy & Classification
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Wels Catfish |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Coryphaena hippurus | Silurus glanis |
| Order | Carangiformes | Siluriformes |
| Family | Coryphaenidae | Siluridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Physical Traits
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Wels Catfish |
|---|---|---|
| Max Length | 210.0 cm | 500.0 cm |
| Max Weight | 40.0 kg | 300.0 kg |
| Color | Dazzling iridescent blue-green and gold flanks; males have a blunt squared-off head; flanks flicker golden-yellow to electric blue when alive, fading to dull gray-green at death. | Dark olive-green to slate-gray back with irregular mottled marbling of darker blotches; flanks grade to olive-yellow; scaleless smooth skin; belly pale cream to yellowish-white; head broad and flat. |
Habitat & Environment
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Wels Catfish |
|---|---|---|
| Water Type | Saltwater | Brackish |
| Depth Range | 0-85m | 0-30m |
| Geographic Range | Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceanic waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. Highly pelagic; gathers around floating sargassum mats, current lines, and thermocline … | Native to large river systems and lakes of central and eastern Europe from the Rhine basin east to the Caspian and Aral sea drainages. Introduced … |
| Habitat | Neritic, pelagic, coral reefs | Large rivers, lakes, and reservoirs across Europe and Asia (Volga, Danube, Rhine, Ob). Inhabits deep, slow-moving freshwater with soft substrates. Tolerates turbid water (15-25°C). Highly … |
Fishing Information
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Wels Catfish |
|---|---|---|
| Game Fish | Yes | Yes |
| Fight Rating | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| World Record | — | — |
| Mercury Level | — | — |
Cuisine & Edibility
Mahi-mahi
Firm, slightly sweet flesh with large, moist flakes and low fat. Excellent grilled, blackened Cajun-style, or in tacos; one of the most popular sport fish for the table.
Wels Catfish
Fatty, soft flesh with a mild, slightly sweet flavor; quality improves from cold, clean water fish. Popular in Central European cuisines — commonly smoked, fried, or braised with vegetables.
Species Overview
Mahi-mahi
The mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphinfish, is among the most colorful pelagic fish in the ocean. Its iridescent blue, green, and gold body fades rapidly after death. It is a fast-growing species, rarely living beyond five years.
Wels Catfish
The wels catfish is the largest freshwater fish in Europe, capable of exceeding 5 meters. Found in large rivers and lakes across the continent, it has been documented beaching itself to catch pigeons. It can live over 80 years.