Head

• The head is the defining characteristic of the flathead catfish. The body and fins are similar to other varieties but the flat and narrow head is unique and responsible for the common name. The flathead catfish has long whiskers around the mouth and a wide mouth. The lower jaw on the flathead catfish is also slightly longer than the upper jaw.
  
  

Body

• The flathead catfish is a dark olive color with shade adjustments based on light exposure in the environment. The fish also displays brown and yellow coloration in the belly region and mild spotting along the sides and back of the body. The tail fin is squared and the remaining fins match that of other catfish varieties.
  
  

Habits and Habitat

• Flathead catfish are a predatory variety feed primarily on other fish and crustaceans. The fish-based diet allows the flathead to reach sizes upwards of 100 pounds. The fish thrive in warm-water environments and are most active with water temperatures over 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The flathead occupies slow-moving water and prefers dark areas. Undercut banks and logjams are common habitat choices for the flathead. The fish sits idle in the slow water and uses the whiskers to detect passing prey before inhaling the prey at the opportune moment.
  
  

Reproduction

• The fish spawn in isolated pairs and occupy a spawning nest area. The peak spawning period occurs during June and July when the female and male connect to fertilize the eggs. The female drops the eggs and leaves the nest while the male remains and guards the nest. The males stirs the water around the nest to create oxygen and advance incubation. The male continues to protect the nest until the juveniles leave the area.
  
  

Invasive Species

• Flathead catfish are considered an invasive species outside of the native range because they prey on the native fish species. The predatory nature of the flathead reduces the available food sources for native fish and reduces the populations of native fish. The mature flathead will reach sizes in excess of 50 pounds and the daily consumption rate of native fish creates a heavy impact on the natural food chain. The fish are difficult to eradicate as they spread through river systems and naturally reproduce. Fisheries biologists manage the populations through electroshocking and liberal limits for anglers.