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Description of the Ecosphere of a Catfish

Catfish live in areas throughout the world except Antarctica. Approximately 45 species of catfish exist in the United States, as of 2011. These strong fish easily grow in farm conditions that replicate their natural ecosphere and conditions. Most of their activity occurs at night as they hide in spaces, such as under rocks, during daylight hours.

Water
- Catfish exist in both fresh and salt water. The fish favor lakes as well as rivers with constant motion from slow and faster currents. Water that is cloudy is preferred but some variations, such as the Wels catfish, are found in either clear or murky conditions. Water depth is also important. Mekong catfish, which have been seen as far as the South China Sea, travel from deep-water depths to shallow waters for specific needs such as food.
Food
- Although a bottom feeder, catfish have many dietary options. The fish go to shallow water to find food, if need be. Worms, night crawlers and small fish are all part of the catfish's diet. Larger catfish, such as the flathead, may eat other young catfish. If food supplies are scarce, any plants or algae in the water can become part of the diet until conditions improve or the fish find another area with food closer to their normal choices.
Breeding and Nesting
- Catfish look for warm, shallow waters when breeding and nesting. The water used for breeding is calmer than where they normally live. Temperatures of the water are anywhere from 70 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Some catfish like the flathead prefer the temperature to be around 66 degrees. They often build nests in cavities like rocks, hanging banks or downed trees. Some catfish, including the channel catfish, use water-level burrows in the bank. Man-made nesting areas with items such as metal drums and old tires are also put into the catfish's habitat to help with the breeding process.
Environmental Issues
- At some times, catfish have been introduced into areas that are not a good habitat and places that they may cause negative consequences. For example, certain species brought to European waters created problems including loss of native plants. Catfish are also experiencing problems from the destruction of their habitat. Damming of streams or rivers is a significant cause as it changes pattern that the fish use for breeding. Pollution of water sources also contributes to changing conditions, which are harmful to eggs as well as adult catfish.

Nature