Fin's Fish Guide
The Carolina madtom (Noturus furiosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Carolina madtom is a small madtom catfish (Ictaluridae) endemic to the Tar and Neuse drainages in North Carolina, in the southeastern United States. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, brown-banded body with four pairs of barbels and a dorsal fin joined to the adipose fin. The pectoral spines carry a mild venom. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it hides by day under stones and hunts insect larvae and small invertebrates. Through habitat loss the species is critically endangered. Handle with care; a sting is painful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Carolina madtom?
The Carolina madtom has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Carolina madtom live?
The Carolina madtom lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: USA
How big does the Carolina madtom get?
The Carolina madtom grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Carolina madtom dangerous to humans?
The Carolina madtom is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The pectoral spines carry a mild venom; a sting feels like a bee sting with pain and swelling. For a sting: immerse the wound in warm water to ease the pain, clean it and check for spine fragments; for marked swelling or infection seek medical help.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Carolina madtom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Carolina madtom is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Carolina madtom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Carolina madtom is one of 12,519 species in the app.