A large native sucker with dark olive-bronze sides. Indicator species for clean cool streams — they cannot tolerate sedimentation or pollution well.

Also called: Redhorse

Native status: Native to eastern and central North America

§ Quick facts

SizeAdult length 30–40 cm (12–16 in)
Weight0.5–2 kg (1–4.5 lb)
LifespanWild 6–15 years
OrderCypriniformes
FamilyCatostomidae

§ Encyclopedia

The black redhorse is a species of freshwater fish endemic to Ontario and the eastern half of the United States, where it lives in streams and small to medium rivers.

Source: Wikipedia — Black redhorse Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Medium-sized stream sucker with bronze-tan sides, distinctive ventral mouth, and large reflective scales.

Similar species. Other Moxostoma species (subtle differences). Common Carp (introduced, much larger, has barbels).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Bottom-feeding omnivore: insects, crustaceans, small fish, plant material.

Behavior. Native suckers travel in schools and undertake spring spawning migrations into clear streams. Their downward-facing mouth feeds the bottom of streams.

§ Range

Eastern and central US

§ Habitat

Clear medium-sized streams with gravel bottoms

§ Threats

Stream sedimentation, dam construction, "trash fish" persecution.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the black redhorse is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support clean streams. Don't kill suckers as "trash fish" — they're native and important.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • NWF Wildlife Guide
  • American Fisheries Society
  • iNaturalist