Howard Lee Moore, age 10, of Nash, Okla., for his question:

CAN CATFISH LIVE IN MUD?

Catfish are indeed a very hardy group of fish. They are scavengers and are able to withstand unfavorable conditions for a relatively long period of time.

Some catfish have been known to survive for long periods of time in mud with very little water. One variety, the Doradidae, is known to be able to crawl over long distances of land. This type also has modifications in his throat and gills that let him make loud noises. '

There are 36 species of North American catfish. You'll find them in all parts of the country in muddy, stagnant water, although they're native to the eastern parts of the country.

The catfish is an excellent food fish.