Reproduction
Channel catfish are monogamous during each
season, meaning a male channel catfish will fertilize only one
female's eggs. They spawn between May and July when
temperatures in the water are between 70°F and 85°F after
preparation of a nest site and courtship between a male and
female has taken place. The nests are usually in dark
crevices or other highly protected areas and are constructed
only by the male catfish. The female and male enter the
nest and arrange themselves together in a head-tail position,
with the female's head by the male's tail and vice versa.
The
male then signals to the female to release the eggs and milt and
the mating is complete. The male then chases the female
away from the nest and assumes full responsibility of the eggs.
The eggs incubate in the nest for four to ten days and then the
fry begin hatching. The fry aggregate in a large mass
while early development occurs and will last for a period of 1/2
to 4 weeks. At this time, the juvenile catfish will emerge
from the nesting area and begin life independently.
I hope these pages have provided you with great insight about the channel catfish. Now, to learn more about me and to see some neat pictures, visit Contact!