| Family: |
Ictaluridae (North American freshwater catfishes) |
| Max. size: |
165 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 68 kg; max. reported age: 21 years |
| Environment: |
demersal; freshwater; brackish; depth range - 50 m |
| Distribution: |
North America: USA (Mississippi River basin from western Pennsylvania to southern South Dakota and Platte River in southwestern Nebraska, south to Gulf; Gulf Slope from Escambia River drainage (where introduced), Alabama and Florida, to Rio Grande drainage in Texas and New Mexico; and Mexico. Introduced in Atlantic Slope drainages, western states, and Minnesota. |
| Diagnosis: |
|
| Biology: |
Inhabits deep water of impoundments and main channels and backwaters of medium to large rivers, over mud, sand and gravel (Ref. 5723, 86798). Stays on the bottom during the day in deep areas and moves into swifter water at night to feed (Ref. 117513). Feeds on small aquatic invertebrates, clams and fishes (Ref. 93252). Prefers clear, strongly flowing water. Deposits eggs in nests under under logs, brush, or riverbank (Ref. 117513). Males build nest often in pools or backwaters (Ref. 117513). Marketed fresh and frozen. Eaten steamed, fried, broiled, microwaved and baked (Ref. 9988). |
| IUCN Red List Status: |
Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 20 February 2012 Ref. (130435)
|
| Threat to humans: |
harmless |
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