North American giant catfish (SciiFii)

The North American giant catfish (Phractocephalus americamum) is a species of pimelodid (long-whiskered) catfish, most closely related to the redtail catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus), that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the wetlands, lakes, and rivers across North America to help boost biodiversity. The North American giant catfish can reach about 1.8 meters (5 feet 11 inches) in length, and about 80 kg (180 lb) in weight, hence the common name. However, this is exceptionally rare, and most do not approach this size. They average 3 feet 6 inches–4 feet 6 inches; 1.1–1.4 meters in length. These colorful large catfishes have a brownish back covered in black spots, with yellow sides, and brown dorsal fin and an reddish-orange caudal fin. Sometimes the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins are also red. They have a broad head with long whiskers, dark black body and white underneath that extends from the mouth to the caudal fin. It has a pair of barbels on the upper jaw, and two pairs on the lower jaw. Their whiskers are sensitive and have chemical receptors which are used as the sense of smell. They breed using external fertilization after laying their eggs. They communicate by making a clicking sound to warn off potential dangers. The North American giant catfish feeds heavily on live and dead fishes and other meat. Even as a juvenile of only a few inches in length, they are able to swallow many of the more common schooling fish such as minnows. The conservation status of the North American giant catfish is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the North American giant catfish's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii