Fin's Fish Guide
The Creek chubsucker (Erimyzon oblongus) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The creek chubsucker (Erimyzon oblongus) is a North American sucker of the family Catostomidae. The species has a stocky, olive to bronze body with a ventral, fleshy sucker mouth and reaches about 38 cm. It inhabits sand and gravel bottoms of pools in clear headwaters, creeks and small rivers, often near vegetation, and sometimes occurs in lakes. With its sucker mouth it searches the bottom for small zooplankton, aquatic insects and some algae. Juveniles often bear a dark lengthwise stripe. Owing to its sensitivity to water pollution the species is an indicator of clean, clear water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Creek chubsucker?
The Creek chubsucker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Inferior sucker mouth; juveniles with a dark longitudinal stripe, indicator of clean water.
Where does the Creek chubsucker live?
The Creek chubsucker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Clear streams and small rivers of eastern North America.
How big does the Creek chubsucker get?
The Creek chubsucker grows to a maximum of about 38 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Creek chubsucker dangerous to humans?
No, the Creek chubsucker 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 Creek chubsucker edible?
The Creek chubsucker is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Erimyzon
More from the family Catostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Creek chubsucker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Creek chubsucker is one of 12,519 species in the app.