Amur catfish is the largest species of freshwater fish native to Eastern Asia and Japan. They live in the Amur River and its tributaries, as well as other rivers, lakes, pools, and marshes around the world. Amur catfish are capable predators that feed on smaller fishes and crustaceans such as crayfish, shrimp, prawns, crabs, and eel.
They have flattened heads and bottom gills that allow them to take in larger prey, while their tail fins help them to pursue faster prey. They are also one of the few species that can raise their eyes above water, giving them superior vision and allowing them to look upward when hunting or observing other objects. The Amur catfish can grow up to 850 cm (2.49 ft) long and weigh up to 150 kg (331 lb).
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Physical Characteristics of amur catfish
The Amur catfish has a flattened head, a snake-like body, and small fins on its tail. Although the back of an amur catfish appears to be brown with dark spots, it can confuse people who have never seen this species before.
A closer look may reveal that the dark spots are violet or white. Their eyes, which can be protruded out of the water, are located on top of the head, and the mouth is located at the tip of the upper jaw.
Breeding
Breeding occurs during the summertime from May to June. During this time, the female lays eggs in a nest that has been made by the male. After around two days, a newly hatched amur catfish will appear. Their breeding system is natural.
Diet
Small freshwater fish such as trout and other small fish, shrimp, and crustaceans such as crayfish and prawns. Amur feeds on small crustaceans and aquatic insects. They are known to have a powerful set of teeth. This helps further their prey with minimal effort.
They have a unique way of hunting and eating their prey, which requires them to find the most suitable place to hide from the sun and wait for the prey. Once it is dark enough, they emerge out of the water to hunt. They eat small fish, insects, and crustaceans.
Uses
The Amur catfish are rarely used in the aquarium and are even rarer among aquaculturists. They have a tremendous appetite for algae, which can be harmful to other fish. A great number of amur fish die after being released into freshwater lakes or rivers because they find it easy to eat too much algae.
They are used as a source of food. The Amur catfish give a good amount of meat and fat. Amur catfish are a staple food in Japan, where they are served fried or in hot broth for breakfast. Their meat is used as a topping for other dishes, and their eggs are sometimes used to make pickles like the Japanese “narezushi” (pickled fish).
Special facts
Fishing Amur catfish is a good beginner fishing activity. They are not common and are rather expensive. This makes them rare. The easiest way to catch them is with a trotline because they live in the water. Another way is through bait fishing.
Interesting Facts
The male amur catfish will court a female by jumping out of the water and swimming toward her in circles. However, review the full profile of the Amur catfish in the following table.
Best 9 Special notes
| Name | Amur catfish. |
| Other names | Amur River salmon, amur catfish, Amur salmon, Amur River catfish, pât-nâk-téu (Lenape), Amour fou, bighead catfish. |
| Scientific name | Pterocryptis Formosa. |
| Order | Siluriformes Family Ictaluridae. |
| Color | Brown with dark spots on the back, silver or grey sides, silver belly. |
| Behavior | Aquatic carnivore. |
| Kingdom | The Animalia Kingdom. |
| Phylum | Chordata. |
| Class | Mammalia order. |
Conclusion
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