Fin's Fish Guide
The Buffalofish (Ictiobus bubalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 112 cm.
Description
The smallmouth buffalo is a large sucker from fresh water of North America, in the Mississippi basin and Gulf coast. The species grows to about 112 cm and has a deep, stocky, greyish-brown body with a small, inferior mouth. As a bottom-feeder it lives in large rivers, lakes and reservoirs and filters and scrapes invertebrates, algae and detritus from the bottom. It is a commercial and sport fish; some specimens become very old. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Buffalofish?
The Buffalofish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Deep stocky body with a small inferior mouth; bottom-feeding buffalo
Where does the Buffalofish live?
The Buffalofish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America
How big does the Buffalofish get?
The Buffalofish grows to a maximum of about 112 cm. On average the species is around 59 cm.
Is the Buffalofish dangerous to humans?
No, the Buffalofish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Buffalofish edible?
Yes, the Buffalofish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ictiobus
More from the family Catostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Buffalofish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Buffalofish is one of 12,519 species in the app.