The schilbid catfishes (Schilbeidae) are a family of catfishes native to Africa and southern Asia. These fish tend to swim in open water. The family includes about 66 species.Schilbid catfishes usually have dorsal fins with a short base and a spine, but Ailia and Parailia lack a dorsal fin altogether. Most species also possess an adipose fin. The base of the anal fin is very long. There are usually four pairs of barbels.