Distinguished from the bullheads and other catfish by having its adipose fin continuous with its tail rather than distinctly separate as in its much larger cousins. Usually in small, rocky, clear-water streams and riffles, but occasionally at the margins of lakes. Often found among stones, under branches, leaf detritus, or even in old cans. Female madtoms usually mate several times during the June through July breeding period. Young specimens have been taken in collections in late fall measuring about one inch long.
Most individuals probably mature during their second summer and few live beyond their third summer.