NANFA-- Freckled Madtom Eating Behavior

John B (bongi_at_cox-internet.com)
Tue, 23 Mar 2004 21:40:10 -0600

I have noticed a behavior in my Freckled Madtoms that is probably more
widespread amoung Ictalurids. They don't seem to see the food that is
placed out for them. Bright red bloodworms are passed right by unless
their wiskers brush them. Then in a flash the worm is gone. I guess
the scent of the worm brings the catfish out but they don't seem to see
the food. Am I correct in my interpretation of this behavior? Is their
"sight" used to detect predators only or given their nocturnal
tendancies, is the use of sight not used much at all?

John
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