Fin's Fish Guide
The Coarsescale sucker (Catostomus macrocheilus) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 61 cm.
Description
The largescale sucker is a sucker (Catostomidae) from northwestern North America. The species grows to about 60 cm and has an elongate body with large scales and a downward-pointing, fleshy sucker mouth. It occurs in pools and runs of medium to large rivers and also in lakes. Young fish are pelagic up to about 1.8 cm and eat planktonic cladocerans and copepods; adults sift algae, detritus and small invertebrates from the bottom with their sucker mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Coarsescale sucker?
The Coarsescale sucker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large scales and a fleshy sucker mouth; juveniles pelagic, adults bottom sifters.
Where does the Coarsescale sucker live?
The Coarsescale sucker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwestern North America; rivers and lakes.
How big does the Coarsescale sucker get?
The Coarsescale sucker grows to a maximum of about 61 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Coarsescale sucker dangerous to humans?
No, the Coarsescale sucker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Coarsescale sucker edible?
The Coarsescale sucker is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Catostomus
More from the family Catostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Coarsescale sucker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Coarsescale sucker is one of 12,519 species in the app.