Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 165 cm.
North America; deep water of large rivers and reservoirs of the Mississippi basin and the Gulf coast.
Description
The blue catfish is a large North American catfish of the family Ictaluridae. The species can reach about 1.6 metres and is one of the largest catfishes of North America; the body is blue-grey with a white belly, with barbels and a deeply forked tail. It inhabits deep water of impoundments and the main channels and backwaters of medium to large rivers, over mud, sand and gravel, and tolerates slightly brackish water. As an omnivore and scavenger it eats fishes, crustaceans, molluscs and plant matter. The pectoral and dorsal spines can give painful puncture wounds. The blue catfish is a prized sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue catfish?
The Blue catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. One of the largest catfishes of North America; barbels, a forked tail and stinging fin spines.
Where does the Blue catfish live?
The Blue catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America; deep water of large rivers and reservoirs of the Mississippi basin and the Gulf coast.
How big does the Blue catfish get?
The Blue catfish grows to a maximum of about 165 cm.
Is the Blue catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue catfish is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin 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 Blue catfish edible?
Yes, the Blue catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ictalurus
More from the family Ictaluridae
Want the complete picture on the Blue catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.