[1][2] It is closely related to the vundu catfish, which is well known among fishermen.

The head of Heterobranchus bidorsalis is shaped like an oval and has a rectangular dorsum.

The maximum recorded weight for this species is 30.0 kg.

[2] This catfish is a demersal fish and inhabits freshwater.

[3] It is found widely in the northern half of Africa between Senegal and Ethiopia, as well as the Nile.