Fin's Fish Guide
The Highfin carpsucker (Carpiodes velifer) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The highfin carpsucker is a sucker (Catostomidae) from North America. The species has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body and a conspicuously high, sail-shaped front dorsal fin ray. It inhabits pools and backwaters of creeks and small to large rivers, often over soft bottom. With its inferior sucker mouth it forages organic detritus, algae and small invertebrates from the bottom. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Highfin carpsucker?
The Highfin carpsucker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly tall, sail-shaped front dorsal fin ray; bottom-foraging sucker.
Where does the Highfin carpsucker live?
The Highfin carpsucker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America; pools and backwaters of rivers.
How big does the Highfin carpsucker get?
The Highfin carpsucker grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 27 cm.
Is the Highfin carpsucker dangerous to humans?
No, the Highfin carpsucker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Highfin carpsucker edible?
The Highfin carpsucker is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Highfin carpsucker?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Carpiodes
More from the family Catostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Highfin carpsucker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Highfin carpsucker is one of 12,519 species in the app.