Fin's Fish Guide
The Greater redhorse (Moxostoma valenciennesi) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Description
The greater redhorse is a large sucker (Catostomidae) from fresh water of eastern North America. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a robust, elongate, bronze to copper-coloured body with a thick, underslung sucker mouth and conspicuously red fins. As a bottom-dweller it sucks up molluscs, small invertebrates and detritus over gravel and stone bottoms of clear rivers and lakes. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Greater redhorse?
The Greater redhorse has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Greater redhorse live?
The Greater redhorse lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Canada, USA
How big does the Greater redhorse get?
The Greater redhorse grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 53 cm.
Is the Greater redhorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Greater 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 Greater redhorse edible?
The Greater redhorse is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Greater redhorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Greater redhorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Greater redhorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Greater redhorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.