Smallmouth Buffalo

Ictiobus bubalus

The smallmouth buffalo (Ictiobus bubalus) is a large freshwater fish reaching up to 90 cm and 36 kg. It has a deep, laterally compressed body with an olive to dark grey coloration and a characteristic small, subterminal, sucker-like mouth. Found in major river systems of central North America, particularly the Mississippi River basin, it inhabits rivers, lakes, and reservoirs at depths of 1 to 20 meters. Recent research has revealed that this species can live over 100 years, making it one of the longest-lived freshwater fish in North America. It feeds by filtering zooplankton and detritus from the water or substrate. Despite its large size and abundance, it is often overlooked by divers who focus on more colorful species. Encountering a large, century-old smallmouth buffalo underwater is a humbling experience that connects divers with living history.