Fin's Fish Guide
The Orangefin Madtom (Noturus gilberti) is a freshwater fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The orangefin madtom is a small North American madtom (Ictaluridae) from the eastern United States. The species has a stocky, scaleless body with barbels, an adipose fin connected to the tail and orange-edged fins, to which the name refers. It inhabits rocky riffles and fast-flowing parts of clear, small rivers, where it forages at night on insect larvae and small invertebrates. Owing to a very limited range the species is considered endangered. The pectoral fin spines are venomous and give a painful puncture wound; treat a sting with hot water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Orangefin Madtom?
The Orangefin Madtom has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Orange-edged fins; nocturnal dwarf catfish with venomous pectoral fin spines, endangered by its limited range.
Where does the Orangefin Madtom live?
The Orangefin Madtom lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern United States; rocky riffles of clear rivers.
How big does the Orangefin Madtom get?
The Orangefin Madtom grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Orangefin Madtom dangerous to humans?
No, the Orangefin Madtom is harmless to humans. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Orangefin Madtom edible?
The Orangefin 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 Orangefin Madtom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Orangefin Madtom is one of 12,519 species in the app.