About Ameiurus platycephalus (Girard, 1859)
Ameiurus platycephalus, commonly known as the flat bullhead, is a species of North American freshwater catfish native to the southeastern United States, ranging from Virginia to Georgia. This species reaches a maximum total length of 29 cm (11 in), and most individuals grow to around 23 cm (9 in) on average. The flat bullhead is native to the lower portions of Atlantic Slope drainages in the southeastern United States. Its full range extends from the upper sections of the James River and Roanoke River in Virginia, south to the Altamaha River in Georgia. It is widespread across the region; for example, it occurs in every drainage in South Carolina. Its typical habitat is slow-moving, quiet stretches of rivers with mud or sandy bottoms, or rock bottoms covered in organic debris. It can also be found in lakes, ponds, and areas behind dams, while younger individuals prefer clear streams. This fish feeds on aquatic insects, molluscs, and small fish, and also consumes vegetation and detritus. Female flat bullheads reach sexual maturity at three years old. Breeding occurs in summer, and each female produces between 200 and 1740 eggs.
