Black Bullhead (Ameiurus melas) - Introduced

The black bullhead looks very similar to a brown bullhead except that it has weaker serrations on the rear edge of its pectoral spines (8-inch specimen pictured). Robert J. Eakins photo.

Identification. Similar to brown bullhead. Tail fin slightly rounded. Anal rays 17-21. Serrations on posterior edge of pectoral spines weak or absent. Similar in color to brown bullhead, but less often mottled. Sometimes has a light vertical band on caudal peduncle at base of tail fin rays. Membrane between fin rays dark, causing fins to have a striped appearance.

Size. Commonly 8 to 12 inches. State survey max. size 13 inches. Max. reported size 25 inches. World Record 8 pounds.

Distribution. Native to the Central United States and southern Canada, and have been introduced elsewhere. Only reported from a couple of sites in western Connecticut (most notably Candlewood Lake).

All maps created in 2009. See CT DEEP Fish Community Data for updated distributions.

Habits. Habits and preferences are very similar to those of the brown bullhead.

Comments. Black bullheads are very difficult to distinguish from brown bullheads. It is unclear whether the few individuals reported in Connecticut represent self-sustaining populations.

Text and images adapted from Jacobs, R. P., O'Donnell, E. B., and Connecticut DEEP. (2009). A Pictorial Guide to Freshwater Fishes of Connecticut. Hartford, CT. Available for purchase at the DEEP Store.