Catfish are a diverse group of fish known for their whisker-like barbels around the mouth, which help them sense their environment. They are found in freshwater and saltwater habitats worldwide, with over 3,000 species. Catfish are typically bottom dwellers, feeding on a variety of organic materials, including plants, insects, and smaller fish. These fish vary in size, with some species growing to be quite large, while others remain small. Catfish are popular in aquaculture and recreational fishing due to their unique appearance and tasty flesh. They play an important role in their ecosystems by helping to recycle nutrients.