Fin's Fish Guide
The Goose Lake sucker (Catostomus occidentalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Western North America, in pools of clear, cool streams and in lakes and reservoirs in California.
Description
The Sacramento sucker is a sucker (family Catostomidae) of western North America. The species grows to about 60 cm and has an elongate, silvery-grey to brownish body with an inferior, fleshy sucking mouth. It usually occurs in pools of clear, cool streams, but also in lakes and impoundments in the drainages of California. With its sucking mouth it scrapes algae, detritus and small bottom invertebrates from the bottom. The species is harmless to humans and of little commercial value. In the spawning season the fish migrate upstream to suitable spawning sites.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goose Lake sucker?
The Goose Lake sucker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sucker with an inferior, fleshy mouth; migrates upstream in the spawning season.
Where does the Goose Lake sucker live?
The Goose Lake sucker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western North America, in pools of clear, cool streams and in lakes and reservoirs in California.
How big does the Goose Lake sucker get?
The Goose Lake sucker grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Goose Lake sucker dangerous to humans?
No, the Goose Lake sucker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Goose Lake sucker edible?
The Goose Lake 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
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