What specific trait is referenced by the specific epithet *punctatus* for the Channel Catfish?
Answer
Dark spots on the sides
The specific epithet *punctatus* refers to the spots typically seen on the sides of the Channel Catfish, *Ictalurus punctatus*.
Related Questions
To which scientific order do all fish commonly called catfish belong?What universal physical feature gives catfish their common name?What is generally true about the skin covering most members of the order Siluriformes?What distinguishing characteristic is referenced by the specific epithet *furcatus* in *Ictalurus furcatus*?Who established the two-part system of binomial nomenclature used for scientific names?What is the family name for the North American freshwater catfish group?Knowing the genus name, such as *Ictalurus*, often helps narrow down what about the fish being observed?Which large catfish species can exceed nine feet in length?To which family does the Walking Catfish, *Clarias batrachus*, belong?What specific trait is referenced by the specific epithet *punctatus* for the Channel Catfish?