Ictaluridae Genus Level Identifiers

General things to look for:

Genus Ameiurus (bullheads, white catfish)- Caudal fin rounded, emarginate or slightly to moderately forked. Usually 6 dorsal rays. Usually 8 pelvic rays. Adipose fin not connected to caudal fin.

Genus Ictalurus (catfish)- Caudal fin moderately to deeply forked. Usually 6 dorsal rays. Usually 8 pelvic rays. Adipose fin not connected to caudal fin.

Genus Noturus (madtoms)- Caudal fin rounded or truncate. Usually 9 pelvic rays. Adipose fin connected to caudal fin, or very nearly so.

Genus Pylodictis (flathead)- Caudal fin slightly rounded, truncate or slightly emarginate. Flat and large head. Lower jaw projecting. Adipose fin not connected to caudal fin.

Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)

Tadpole Madtom (Noturus gyrinus)

Brindled Madtom (Noturus nocturnus)

Madtoms are often found in unusual places...