Fin's Fish Guide
The Golden redhorse (Moxostoma erythrurum) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 78 cm.
Description
The golden redhorse (Moxostoma erythrurum) is a North American sucker of the family Catostomidae. The species has a streamlined, golden-bronze body with a ventral, fleshy sucker mouth and can reach about 78 cm. It inhabits pools, runs and riffles with mud to rock bottoms of creeks and small to large rivers, and sometimes occurs in lakes. With its sucker mouth it searches the bottom for the larvae of mayflies, caddisflies and midges. The species is sensitive to water pollution and is an indicator of clean water. It is caught locally as a sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden redhorse?
The Golden redhorse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Glossy golden-bronze body with an inferior sucker mouth; indicator of clean water.
Where does the Golden redhorse live?
The Golden redhorse lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Streams and rivers of central and eastern North America.
How big does the Golden redhorse get?
The Golden redhorse grows to a maximum of about 78 cm. On average the species is around 29 cm.
Is the Golden redhorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Golden redhorse 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 Golden redhorse edible?
The Golden redhorse is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Golden redhorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Golden redhorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.