Flathead Catfish Behavior
The flathead catfish, or Pylodictis olivaris, is a catfish that is native to the United States. This fish originally inhabited parts of the Mississippi, Ohio and Missouri basins and areas south toward Mexico. Since then, it has been introduced to other areas around the country and has thrived. This fish has very particular behavior that is similar to that of other catfish.
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Habitats
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Flathead catfish live in deep holes of medium and large freshwater rivers and streams. These holes provide the flathead catfish protection and allow them to surprise unsuspecting prey. When not in a hole, Flathead catfish stay along the bottom of the river floor near logs and other debris.
Spawning Season
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According to the Texas State University Department of Biology, flathead catfish spawn in late June and July in rivers and streams in Texas. This time of the year is chosen because the water is at a temperature that is perfect for spawning. Other areas of the country may have a different yet similar spawning season.
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Spawning Behavior
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Flathead catfish will guard their nests from predators. The nests are commonly in holes and are constructed by both the male and the female. Once the nest is constructed, males will sometimes chase away and kill the females and protect the eggs on their own. When threatened, flathead catfish will defend their eggs and kill any intruders.
Food Consumption
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Flathead catfish consume microcrustaceans and insect larvae when they are young. As they age, Flathead catfish will consume larger prey, including crayfish, clams and other fish. These fish will hunt during the night, which is referred to as nocturnal feeding. Flathead catfish will lie and wait until they find the prey, then lunge and catch it. These catfish can be effective hunters because they can grow up to about 48 pounds, which is the Pennsylvania state record for a flathead catfish.
Migration
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Flathead catfish are mainly sedentary fish, so they do not migrate over long areas. They do however, have several holes that they live in and will roam the bottom of the river at night.
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References
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