Fin's Fish Guide
The Speckled madtom (Noturus leptacanthus) is a freshwater fish of the family Ictaluridae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The speckled madtom is a small North American catfish of the family Ictaluridae from the south-eastern United States. The species grows to only about 9 cm and has a stocky, yellow-brown body with fine dark speckles, barbels around the mouth and an adipose fin. It inhabits gravel and sand runs and rocky riffles of creeks and small to medium rivers, often near vegetation. As a nocturnal bottom hunter it feeds on insect larvae and small invertebrates. Like other madtoms it has a venom gland at the pectoral spines; a sting gives a painful, burning wound. Therefore handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Speckled madtom?
The Speckled madtom has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Speckled dwarf catfish with a venom gland at the pectoral fin spines.
Where does the Speckled madtom live?
The Speckled madtom lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern USA; gravel and sand runs of streams and rivers.
How big does the Speckled madtom get?
The Speckled madtom grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Speckled madtom dangerous to humans?
No, the Speckled madtom is harmless to humans. The pectoral 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 Speckled madtom edible?
The Speckled 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 Speckled madtom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Speckled madtom is one of 12,519 species in the app.