Florida roads are being invaded by mucus-covered walking catfish post-Hurricane Debby: A guide to this unique species.

Hurricane Debby, a powerful storm that recently hit Florida, not only brought chaos and destruction but also unexpected visitors to the state’s residents. Among the $1 million worth of cocaine washed up on Florida beaches, nonnative creatures like walking catfish have been spotted squirming on land after the storm’s heavy rainfall flooded roads and driveways.

Videos circulating online show these unusual catfish moving on land, seemingly „walking away“ as if they were on a mission. These walking catfish, native to southeast Asia, were first reported in Florida in the late 1960s. They are easily identifiable by their elongated, gray, and scaleless bodies with sharp pectoral spines and four pairs of barbels. Unlike traditional catfish, walking catfish have the unique ability to breathe air and move across land using their pectoral fins, resembling an infantry-man scooting under barbed wire.

While these creatures are most commonly found in the Everglades and surrounding canals, they have been spotted in various parts of Florida, especially during floods when they emerge from storm drainage systems. Despite not being native to Florida, walking catfish are considered a conditional species rather than invasive. Initially feared to eliminate native fish populations, they have not had significant detrimental effects on local wildlife but are still deemed undesirable.

Catching walking catfish is no easy task due to their slippery mucus-covered skin that protects them when out of the water. This unique feature also aids in their survival and reproduction, as male walking catfish build nests in underwater vegetation to protect their eggs and young. This parental care contributes to the species‘ success as an invasive species.

It is important to note that owning or transporting live walking catfish is illegal without proper permits. Anglers interested in consuming them should ensure they are immediately put on ice as possession of live walking catfish is prohibited by state and federal regulations.

In conclusion, Hurricane Debby’s aftermath in Florida has not only brought about unexpected challenges but also introduced residents to the fascinating world of walking catfish. These resilient creatures, with their unique abilities and behaviors, serve as a reminder of the diverse and sometimes surprising wildlife that can be found in the wake of natural disasters.