Flathead Catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) reproduction in Canada

Authors

  • Colin Illes Fisheries and Oceans Canada
  • Julia E. Colm
  • Nicholas E. Mandrak
  • David M. Marson

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22621/cfn.v133i4.2323

Keywords:

Flathead Catfish, Pylodictis olivaris, reproduction, Great Lakes, Lake St. Clair, Thames River, juvenile, young- of-year

Abstract

Eleven Flathead Catfish (Pylodictis olivaris), representing at least five age classes, were collected between 2016 and 2018 in the lower Thames River, Ontario, Canada. The capture of two juveniles (total lengths 78 mm and 82 mm), the first records of juveniles in Canada, is a strong indication that reproduction has occurred. Previous records were thought to be individuals that dispersed from known populations in American waters of Lake Erie. Flathead Catfish is currently designated as data deficient by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. These new findings may provide sufficient data to reconsider the conservation status of this species.

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Published

2020-05-08

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Section

Articles