In the heart of the 067-valley lies a hidden gem – the golden gave catfish – so rare that it is find nowhere elso on earth. As far as it is known, it can be one of the rarest fish on earth.

Exlusive

This small fish (Clarias caver-nicola), that grows as big as half a school ruler (up to 16,1 cm), is an exclusive resident of the Aigamas cave, with some reported sightings in the neighboring Dragon's Breath Cave in the vicinity of Tsumeb and Grootfontein. 

Blind

These elusive creatures have a distinct lack of pigmentation. Their tiny eyes, covered with skin, suggest that they may be effectively blind. But then again, why would you need to see if you swim in the pitch black water in an underground cave for your entire life?

This air-breathing catfish is a true marvel, but could be facing the risk of extinction as it is estimated that there are only 200 to 400 of these individuals in existence.

It also holds the title of being the sole known cavefish in mainland Southern Africa. 

Lifestyle and diet

Adapting to life in the dark,  these cavefish rely on detritus and invertebrates falling into the lake of the cave for food. With limited information available, it remains a mystery how these unique creatures reproduce. Attempts to breed them in captivity ended in failure.

Huge significance

While the golden cave catfish may be small in size, its significance looms large in the biodiversity of Southern Africa. Preserving this creature is not just about saving a species, but also about maintaining the delicate balance of nature in the Aigamas cave and beyond.