The Blue Catfish (Ictalurus furcatus) is a large North American catfish species native to the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Distinguished by its bluish-gray coloration and deeply forked tail, it thrives in freshwater and brackish habitats. As an omnivorous and opportunistic predator, it feeds on a variety of aquatic organisms. Blue catfish can grow up to 170 cm (65 inches) in length and weigh as much as 65 kg (143 pounds). They are considered invasive in certain regions, such as the Chesapeake Bay.