Introduction
There is a deficiency of published material illustrating Piscian osteology
in a manner useful for element and/or taxonomic identification. The
purpose of this paper is to provide an illustrated atlas of the osteology
of the Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatusi) to aid the zooarcheologist in
the identification of Ictalurid remains. The illustrations are not
intended to serve as a substitute for comparative materials, but rather, as
a supplement to a comparative collection, aiding in element nomenclature
and taxonomic assignment to the family level.
Three specimens have been utilized in the figures. Specimen 1 was 500mm in
total length: standard length was 408mm and head length 110mm. Total
length for specimen 2 was 600mm, standard length 510mm and head length
115mm. Specimen 3 was 473mm in total length; standard length was 370mm and
head length 108mm. Specimens 1 and 2 were prepared by enzyme (papain)
maceration, degreased in an acetone bath and reconstructed. Specimen 3 was
evicerated, defleshed and placed outdoors where beetles rendered a fairly
clean, articulated skeleton. For photographic purposes all specimens were
coated with a "smoke film," utilizing burning magnesium ribbon, to provide
a uniform surface color for clarification of small features. Specimen 1
was utilized in Figures 1 and 2, Specimen 2 in Figure 3 and Specimen 3 in
Figures 4 and 5. All three specimens were used in compiling Figures 6, 7
and 8.
Identification of the elements was facilitated through the use of specimens
which are a part of the comparative vertebrate collection developed by the
staff of the Midwest Archeological Center in conjunction with archeological
programs of the National Park Service. References utilized in element
nomenclature include: Gregory (1932), Kindred (1919), Lundberg (1975),
Olsen (1968) and Starks (1901).
