Clarias batrachus, commonly known as the walking catfish, thrives in freshwater habitats like ponds, rivers, and swamps across Southeast Asia. Known for its ability to 'walk' on land using its pectoral fins, this nocturnal species can survive in low-oxygen environments, feeding on a variety of aquatic organisms.

Clarias batrachus, commonly known as the walking catfish, is native to Southeast Asia. Its geographical distribution includes countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Clarias batrachus typically inhabits freshwater environments such as rivers, swamps, ponds, and canals. It prefers slow-moving or stagnant waters with muddy bottoms. The species is highly adaptable to a range of environmental conditions, often found in warm, tropical climates with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.

The walking catfish is a benthic species, meaning it lives and feeds on or near the bottom of water bodies. It is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, detritus, and small aquatic organisms. The species is known for its ability to breathe atmospheric air, which allows it to survive in low-oxygen conditions and even travel short distances on land in search of new habitats. This adaptability makes it a successful colonizer in diverse environments.