Origin
Clarias batrachus is native to Southeastern Asia. Walking catfish were introduced to the United States through the aquarium trade.
Life Cycle
C. batrachus coloration is gray to gray-brown with small white spots and approximately 24 in. (61 cm) in length. C. batrachus has a high tolerance for harsh living conditions and is found in a wide variety of habitats. Reproductive maturity occurs at one year of age. Spawning occurs with the onset of the rainy season in both native and nonnative ranges. Males guard eggs and young. Diet of C. batrachus includes eggs and larvae of fish, small fishes, and invertebrate species.
Distribution
C. batrachus is established in Florida.
Control Efforts
The impact of C. batrachus is largely unknown. The United States has classified all members of the family Clariidae as injurious wildlife making it illegal to possess without a federal permit
https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=486
https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/discover-fish/species-profiles/clarias-batrachus/