A native cutthroat subspecies of the upper Rio Grande. Down to ~12% of historic range due to non-native trout, drought, and wildfire. State fish of New Mexico.

Native status: Native to Rio Grande basin; state-threatened

§ Quick facts

SizeLength 15–35 cm
Weight150–800 g
LifespanWild 6–9 years
OrderSalmoniformes
FamilySalmonidae

§ Encyclopedia

The cutthroat trout is a clade of four fish species of the family Salmonidae native to cold-water tributaries of the Pacific Ocean, Rocky Mountains, and Great Basin in North America. These four species are the Coastal, Westslope, Lahontan, and the Rocky Mountain. As a member of the genus Oncorhynchus, it is in the Pacific trout group, which includes the widely distributed rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout are popular gamefish, especially among anglers who enjoy fly fishing. The common name "cutthroat" refers to the distinctive red coloration on the underside of the lower jaw. The specific name clarkii was given to honor explorer William Clark, coleader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Source: Wikipedia — Cutthroat trout Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Olive-gold trout with profuse small dark spots; vivid red-orange throat slash; small adipose fin.

Similar species. Other cutthroat subspecies. Greenback Cutthroat (different range). Yellowstone Cutthroat (different markings).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Aquatic insects, terrestrial insects.

Behavior. Native subspecies of cutthroat trout endemic to Rio Grande headwaters in CO and NM. Population reduced to <10% of historical range due to dam construction, water diversions, and hybridization with stocked rainbow trout. State fish of New Mexico. Conservation actions include barrier construction to isolate pure populations, hatchery support, and habitat restoration.

§ Range

Rio Grande and Pecos drainages (NM, CO)

§ Habitat

Cold high-elevation streams

§ Threats

Hybridization with rainbow trout, climate-driven warming, wildfire impacts.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the rio grande cutthroat trout is currently classified as Vulnerable.

§ What helps

Don't release rainbows. Support Trout Unlimited recovery. Donate to NMDGF.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
  • Colorado Parks and Wildlife
  • Trout Unlimited
  • IUCN Red List 2008