Fish Species

Klamath Largescale Sucker

• Scientific Name

  Catostomus snyderi
• Native

  Yes
• Identification

  • Fairly large sucker, may reach lengths up to 46 cm FL
  • Short head, thick caudal peduncle, solid body
  • Short dorsal fin, insertion closer to tip of snout than tail
  • Subterminal mouth
  • Narrow upper lip: 4-5 rows of papillae
  • Deep medial notch in lower lip, one complete row of papillae
  • Green back, yellow to gold underside
  • Fin rays: dorsal 11 (10-12), anal 7
  • Lateral line scales: 67-81, 11-14 scales above line, 8-12 scales below line
• Life History

  Klamath Largescale Suckers have not been extensively studied. Today they are found primarily in large streams where water quality is fairly high, though they may also be found in lakes Historically they were probably more abundant in lakes, especially those with deep water. Klamath Largescale Suckers have shown an ability to make significant journeys that may include using fish ladders. Klamath Largescale Suckers can survive short stints in water temperatures that exceed 32°C and where dissolved oxygen levels are around 1 mg/L. Like other Suckers, Klamath Largescale Suckers are believed to be benthic omnivores. Juveniles have been found to feed on primarily zooplankton in Upper Klamath Lake. Most Suckers reach sexual maturity in 4-6 years at a length of 20-30 cm FL. The oldest recorded Klamath Largescale Sucker was 31 years old and measured 46 cm FL. Spawning occurs in upstream tributaries with migration happening between March and May. Males probably arrive at spawning grounds before females. Females are estimated to produce an approximate range of 39,000 to 64,000 eggs.

• Links to Other Research

  N / A