Fin's Fish Guide
The Freckled madtom (Noturus nocturnus) is a freshwater fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The freckled madtom is a small catfish from the southern and central United States, in muddy, slow-flowing rivers and streams of the Mississippi basin. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, grey-brown body with fine dark freckling, barbels and an adipose fin. Like other madtoms it has a venom gland at the pectoral spine; a sting is painful like a bee sting. It is nocturnal and eats insect larvae and small invertebrates. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freckled madtom?
The Freckled madtom has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Venom gland at the pectoral fin spine; painful sting; nocturnal
Where does the Freckled madtom live?
The Freckled madtom lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern and central USA
How big does the Freckled madtom get?
The Freckled madtom grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Freckled madtom dangerous to humans?
The Freckled madtom can cause injury; handle it with care. The pectoral spine has a venom gland; a sting is painful like a bee sting. Immerse the injured area for 30-60 minutes in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C), clean the wound and seek medical help for a severe reaction.
Is the Freckled madtom edible?
The Freckled madtom is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Freckled madtom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freckled madtom is one of 12,519 species in the app.