bony fish siluriform fish Catfish (or catfishes; order Siluriformes or Nematognathi) are a diverse group of ray-finned fish. Despite their name, not all catfish have prominent barbel. Members of the Siluriformes order are defined by features of the skull and swimbladder. Catfish are of considerable commercial importance; many of the larger species are farmed or fished for food. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catfish] catfishes silures requires discussion