Catfish
Hardhead Catfish
Ariopsis felis
SaltwaterAriidaeLeast Concern
About
The Hardhead Catfish is a common saltwater catfish characterized by its bony head shield and whisker-like barbels. They are opportunistic feeders and often found scavenging along the bottom, especially in bays and estuaries.
- Average size
- 8-12 inches, 1-3 lbs
- Colors
- Grayish-blue to brown dorsally, fading to white or yellowish-white ventrally. They lack distinct markings.
- Diet
- Omnivorous; feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, small fish, and decaying organic matter.
- Region
- Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the United States, from New York to Florida and Texas.