Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis)

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Yellow Bullhead

Ameiurus natalis.jpg
Bullhead Catfish

Ameiurus natalis

1325 Litres (350 US G.)

40-48 cm (15.7-18.9")

sg

Freshwater

pH

6.0 - 8.0

5-21.7°C (41 -71 °F)

6-10 °d

1:1 M:F

Carnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

15-18 years

Family

Ictaluridae



Additional names

Bullhead Catfish, Bull's Mouth, Yellow Catfish, Butter Catfish, White Whiskered Bullhead, Yellow Belly Catfish, Yellow Bullhead

Additional scientific names

Ictalurus natalis, Pimelodus natalis


Origin

Found in slow-moving water throughout North and Central America.


Sexing

Most females have a noticeably larger anal fin. This may or not be present in juveniles.


Tank compatibility

This fish can be aggressive, but only to fish larger than itself. Smaller fish will disappear overnight.


Diet

Commercial flake food, bloodworms, lean meats, fish, and worms are favorites of the bullhead.


Feeding regime

Once or twice a day.


Environment specifics

A coldwater fish, hardy and can survive in outdoor ponds in temperate regions.


Behaviour

These fish are mainly nocturnal, but may be active during the day.


Identification

This fish is elongate and rounded in shape with small fins and a rounded caudal fin. It has small eyes, a large head and an equally large mouth complete with several sets of barbels. A Yellow Bullhead's "beard" (those 4 barbels on the lower jaw) is yellow-to-white in colour. This is a clear distinction from the related Ameiurus melas (Black Bullhead) and Ameiurus nebulosus (Brown Bullhead). The body of a Yellow Bullhead is a deep red-brown in colour with a paler cream-yellow belly.

Pictures

External links