What is the difference between Qingjiang fish and catfish?

Qingjiang fish refers to fish produced in the Qingjiang Reservoir area of Hubei, while catfish are fish that live in waters such as ponds or rivers. The two look somewhat similar, but there are still differences. So, what are the differences between Qingjiang fish and catfish?

Difference one: body shape is different: the body of the Qingjiang fish is somewhat flat, its body length is similar to that of the yellow croaker, and its weight is relatively light; the body of the catfish is relatively round and plump, its body length is about 30 cm, and its weight can be very large, the largest being bigger than a person, reaching several thousand jin.

Difference two: body color is different: the color of the Qingjiang fish is relatively light, the color of the body and belly is basically the same, and it has fish scales on its body; the body color of the catfish is usually dark brown or grayish black, the belly is somewhat light gray or white, and there are no fish scales on its body.

Difference three: head is different: the head of the Qingjiang fish is relatively small, the mouth is somewhat flat and wide, and it has two barbels, which are relatively short; the head of the catfish is relatively large and flat, the fish head is larger than the body, the mouth is relatively round, and it has four or more than four barbels, which are very long.

Difference four: tail is different: the tail of the Qingjiang fish is forked and very short, like scissors, and there are 2 dorsal fins on its back, one in front and one at the tail; the tail of the catfish is not forked and is very long, like a fan, and there is 1 small dorsal fin on its back.

Difference five: growing waters are different: Qingjiang fish live in clear water, with moderate pH, sufficient dissolved oxygen, fresh water quality, and no pollution sources; catfish live in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and ponds.

Difference six: distribution range is different: Qingjiang fish are distributed in Hubei Province, the “province of a thousand lakes”, and are mainly produced in the Qingjiang Reservoir area of Hubei; catfish are distributed all over the world.