Fin's Fish Guide
The Black bullhead (Ameiurus melas) is a freshwater fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 66 cm.
North America; pools, oxbows and slow-flowing sections of streams and rivers.
Description
The black bullhead is a North American catfish of the family Ictaluridae. The species grows to about 66 cm but usually stays much smaller, and has a dark, scaleless body with barbels around the mouth and an adipose fin. It inhabits pools, backwaters and sluggish soft-bottomed sections of creeks and rivers, plus impoundments and ponds. As a nocturnal omnivore it eats insects, leeches, molluscs, plant matter and carrion. The pectoral and dorsal spines can give painful puncture wounds. The species has been introduced outside North America and is locally established in parts of Europe.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black bullhead?
The Black bullhead has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Scaleless catfish with barbels and an adipose fin; the pectoral and dorsal fin spines can sting.
Where does the Black bullhead live?
The Black bullhead lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America; pools, oxbows and slow-flowing sections of streams and rivers.
How big does the Black bullhead get?
The Black bullhead grows to a maximum of about 66 cm. On average the species is around 27 cm.
Is the Black bullhead dangerous to humans?
The Black bullhead can cause injury; handle it with care. The stout, sharp pectoral and dorsal spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Black bullhead edible?
Yes, the Black bullhead is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Black bullhead and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ameiurus
More from the family Ictaluridae
Want the complete picture on the Black bullhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black bullhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.