Fin's Fish Guide
The Black jumprock (Moxostoma cervinum) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
Moxostoma cervinum, the blacktip jumprock, is a North American sucker of the family Catostomidae. The species has an elongate, brownish body with dark-tipped fins and a ventral, fleshy sucker mouth, and reaches about 19 cm. It inhabits rocky riffles and fast-flowing sections of creeks and small rivers with clear water. With its sucker mouth it scrapes and sucks insect larvae, small invertebrates and detritus from the bottom and stones. Owing to its sensitivity to water pollution the species is an indicator of clean, flowing water. It has no significant fishery importance because of its small size.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black jumprock?
The Black jumprock has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Inferior sucker mouth and black-tipped fins; indicator of clean, flowing water.
Where does the Black jumprock live?
The Black jumprock lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fast-flowing streams and rivers of eastern North America.
How big does the Black jumprock get?
The Black jumprock grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Black jumprock dangerous to humans?
No, the Black jumprock is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Black jumprock edible?
The Black jumprock is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Moxostoma
More from the family Catostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Black jumprock?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black jumprock is one of 12,519 species in the app.