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Hardhead Catfish

Arius Felis

Appearance

hard head catfish
  • Body brownish to gray-green, with a white to yellowish belly
  • Three prominent, sharp spines (one at beginning of dorsal fin and one on each pectoral fin)
  • Spines do not have fleshy filaments
  • Four barbels on chin
  • Barbels at corner of mouth (shorter than head and not flat)

Similar Species: Gafftopsail catfish, B. marinus (has two chin barbels and spines with long filaments)

Size: Up to 24 inches (12 pounds)

Habitat

Continental waters; enters brackish waters. Commonly caught from bridges, catwalks, and piers, particularly in passes and inland waterways.

Behavior

Males incubate eggs in their mouth

Additional Information

State Record: 3lb, 5oz

Recreational Regulations

 

Image Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles