Noturus leptacanthus  Jordan, 1877
Image contributors to this species:
Dustin Smith (1)
ScotCat Sources:
Other Sources:
Relevant Information:	Inhabits gravel-sand runs and rocky riffles of creeks and small to medium rivers, near vegetation. Feeds on midge larvae. This species is slender built with a dark brown to russet back; sides brownish yellow. The back, sides, median fins have scattered grey black blotches, belly whitish. The head is narrow, the eyes small and the upper jaw overhangs the lower. 4 pairs barbels. Pectoral spine has poison glands at the base so with most of this genera, handle with care. Aquarium Care: The Madtoms are well suited to aquarium life. Provide river gravel and smooth rounded stones for hiding places during the day. A power filter at one end of the tank will provide the conditions of a flowing stream for these catfish. Can be housed with other North American fishes such as minnows, darters and shiners. Diet:They like most meaty food, such as cut-up earth worms, frozen blood worm and prawns. They will also take tablet and pellet foods. A varied diet will keep them in optimum health.
Common Name:	Speckled madtom
Synonyms:	None
Family:	Ictaluridaelycipitidae
Distribution:	North America: Atlantic and Gulf Slope drainages from Edisto River in South Carolina, USA to Amite-Comite River in Louisiana, USA; south in peninsular Florida to St. John's River drainage.
Size:	8.0cm. (3ins)
Temp:	15 -23°C (57-73°F)
p.H.	6.5-7.0.
Reference:	Froese, R. and D. Pauly. Editors. 2009.FishBase. World Wide Web electronic publication. www.fishbase.org, version (05/2012). The Audubon Society Field guide to North American Fishes, Whales & Dolphins. Alfred A. Knopf, New York. 848 p