Fin's Fish Guide
The Margined madtom (Noturus insignis) is a freshwater fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Fresh water of eastern North America, in clear, flowing rivers and streams with stony bottoms.
Description
The margined madtom is a small catfish of the family Ictaluridae (North American catfishes) reaching about 15 cm. The smooth, brownish-yellow body has four pairs of barbels around the mouth and an adipose fin that runs almost continuously into the tail. Characteristic of the madtoms (Noturus) is a venomous spine in each pectoral fin: a prick causes a painful, burning wound. The species is native to the fresh water of eastern North America and lives in clear, flowing rivers and streams with stony bottoms. At night it searches among the stones for insect larvae, small crustaceans and worms. The male guards the eggs laid under a stone. It is sometimes used as bait.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Margined madtom?
The Margined madtom has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Small dwarf catfish with four pairs of barbels, an adipose fin that merges into the tail and a venomous spine in each pectoral fin.
Where does the Margined madtom live?
The Margined madtom lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of eastern North America, in clear, flowing rivers and streams with stony bottoms.
How big does the Margined madtom get?
The Margined madtom grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Margined madtom dangerous to humans?
The Margined madtom is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Each pectoral fin bears a venomous spine; a prick causes a painful, burning wound like a wasp sting. Clean the wound and immerse it in water as hot as can be tolerated; seek medical help for a severe reaction.
Is the Margined madtom edible?
The Margined madtom is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Status & sources
Same genus Noturus
More from the family Ictaluridae
Want the complete picture on the Margined madtom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Margined madtom is one of 12,519 species in the app.