Catostomus occidentalis Ayres, 1854
Sacramento sucker
Catostomus occidentalis
photo by Reyes, R.C.

Family:  Catostomidae (Suckers), subfamily: Catostominae
Max. size:  60 cm TL (male/unsexed); max. reported age: 10 years
Environment:  demersal; freshwater
Distribution:  North America: Pacific Slope of USA from Mad River in north California to Salinas River in central California; throughout Sacramento-San Joaquin drainage from Goose Lake in Oregon to Kern River in California. Four susbpecies were recognized, but in need of study.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Occurs usually in pools of clear, cool streams. Also found in lakes and impoundments (Ref. 86798).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 27 October 2011 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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