Family Siluridae is a group of fishes that encompasses a wide variety of species that belong to the catfish group. Several synonyms are used for this family, including catfish, mud catfish, shovelnose catfish, and flathead catfish. These fishes are known for their elongated bodies and whisker-like barbels that they have around their mouths. Most species of Siluridae are predatory and feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. These fish can be found in freshwater habitats all around the world, from North America to Asia. They are an important food source for many societies and a popular sport fish for fishermen.