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The Scioto Madtom

Scioto Madtom is known from historical collections in a very small part of Ohio. The last confirmed sighting was in 1957, so this page describes its documented history.

Range and Identity

Noturus trautmani was recorded from a short section of Big Darby Creek. Only eighteen individuals were collected, giving the species an unusually limited specimen record. This history should not be converted into a present-day claim that the creek offers a fishery for it.

Habitat and Behavior

The collection habitat included a sand-and-gravel riffle, especially its downstream portion. The historical account describes daytime concealment beneath rocks or vegetation and nighttime movement along the stream bottom. These observations are more specific than a general description of all small catfishes.

Food and Life History

The upper published length is 6.1 centimeters total length. The precise cause of its disappearance is uncertain. Habitat modification, siltation and pollution were considered likely contributors, rather than a single proven cause established by the surviving specimens.

Field Note

Treat the locality as a historical record. A modern small catfish from Big Darby Creek needs independent identification and should never be labeled Scioto Madtom from location alone.

All Lakes With Scioto Madtom

Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Scioto Madtom records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.

No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.

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