Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender madtom (Noturus exilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The slender madtom is a small catfish from the central and eastern United States, in clear, flowing streams of the Mississippi basin. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a slender, yellowish to grey-brown body with barbels and an adipose fin. Like other madtoms it has a venom gland at the base of the pectoral spine; a sting is painful, comparable to a bee sting. It shelters under stones by day and hunts insect larvae and small invertebrates at night. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender madtom?
The Slender madtom has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Venom gland at the pectoral fin spine; painful sting; night hunter under stones
Where does the Slender madtom live?
The Slender madtom lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central and eastern USA
How big does the Slender madtom get?
The Slender madtom grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Slender madtom dangerous to humans?
The Slender 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 Slender madtom edible?
The Slender 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 Slender madtom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender madtom is one of 12,519 species in the app.