Klamath Largescale Sucker (Catostomus snyderi) - KFFS Active
Species Studied - Klamath Largescale Sucker (Catostomus snyderi)
Klamath largescale suckers (Catostomus snyderi) are catostomids endemic to the Upper Klamath River Basin in Oregon and California. The largest adult females can grow to 575 mm fork length. In contrast to Lost River and shortnose suckers, Klamath largescale suckers are primarily resident in rivers and large streams. The population of Klamath largescale suckers is found primary in the tributaries to Upper Klamath Lake (the Williamson and Sprague Rivers) spawns farther upstream and earlier in the spring than the other two species (March and April). The Klamath largescale sucker shares a complex evolutionary genetic heritage with the other two sucker species, particularly the shortnose sucker. Although most adults are morphologically distinct from shortnose sucker adults, hybrids do occur and genetic techniques indicate broad overlap in genotypes between these two species. Aside from the most basic life history information, little is known about Klamath largescale suckers.
Presently research on Klamath Largescale suckers focuses on distribution and habitat use in the Upper Lost River watershed. Staff at the Klamath Falls field station also track the timing of spawning migrations in the Williamson and Sprague River watersheds.
- Overview
Species Studied - Klamath Largescale Sucker (Catostomus snyderi)
Klamath largescale suckers (Catostomus snyderi) are catostomids endemic to the Upper Klamath River Basin in Oregon and California. The largest adult females can grow to 575 mm fork length. In contrast to Lost River and shortnose suckers, Klamath largescale suckers are primarily resident in rivers and large streams. The population of Klamath largescale suckers is found primary in the tributaries to Upper Klamath Lake (the Williamson and Sprague Rivers) spawns farther upstream and earlier in the spring than the other two species (March and April). The Klamath largescale sucker shares a complex evolutionary genetic heritage with the other two sucker species, particularly the shortnose sucker. Although most adults are morphologically distinct from shortnose sucker adults, hybrids do occur and genetic techniques indicate broad overlap in genotypes between these two species. Aside from the most basic life history information, little is known about Klamath largescale suckers.
Presently research on Klamath Largescale suckers focuses on distribution and habitat use in the Upper Lost River watershed. Staff at the Klamath Falls field station also track the timing of spawning migrations in the Williamson and Sprague River watersheds.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media DetailsAdult Klamath largescale sucker. Credit: USGS, Western Fisheries Research Center (Public domain.)