Fin's Fish Guide
The Black madtom (Noturus funebris) is a freshwater fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Southeastern USA; moderately to fast-flowing, clear water over gravel and stones.
Description
The black madtom is a small catfish of the madtom family (Ictaluridae) from the south-eastern United States. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, dark body with barbels and an adipose fin joined to the tail fin. It lives near vegetation in moderate to fast-flowing, clear water over gravel and stones. As a nocturnal bottom searcher it feeds on insect larvae and small invertebrates. Madtoms have a venom gland at the pectoral spines; a sting gives a painful, burning wound, similar to a wasp sting. Therefore handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black madtom?
The Black madtom has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Venom gland at the pectoral fin spines (a sting like a wasp sting); nocturnal dwarf catfish.
Where does the Black madtom live?
The Black madtom lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern USA; moderately to fast-flowing, clear water over gravel and stones.
How big does the Black madtom get?
The Black madtom grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Black madtom dangerous to humans?
No, the Black madtom is harmless to humans. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Black madtom edible?
The Black madtom is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Noturus
More from the family Ictaluridae
Want the complete picture on the Black madtom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black madtom is one of 12,519 species in the app.