The Food Habits Of Channel Catfish In South Florida

Since channel catfish, Ictalwrus punctatus, were being considered as a possible predator for the control of forage fish in Florida lakes, a study of their food habits was conducted. An examination was made of the stomachs of 195 channel catfish collected in Lake Okeechobee, Lake Blue Cypress, and Lake Agnes, with trammel nets. The size range of fish examined was eight to 30 inches in total length. The major food items were insects, crustaceans, and fish. Data is presented according to the frequency of occurrence and number of food items contained in the stomachs. The lengths of channel catfish and the foods eaten are discussed.