Fin's Fish Guide
The Owens sucker (Catostomus fumeiventris) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The Owens sucker is a sucker from the Owens River drainage in California, with introduced populations in June Lake and the Santa Clara system. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a streamlined body with an inferior, fleshy sucking mouth with which it scrapes algae, small invertebrates and detritus from the bottom. It lives in silty to rocky pools and runs of creeks. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Owens sucker?
The Owens sucker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Inferior fleshy sucker mouth for scraping the bottom
Where does the Owens sucker live?
The Owens sucker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. California
How big does the Owens sucker get?
The Owens sucker grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 31 cm.
Is the Owens sucker dangerous to humans?
No, the Owens sucker 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 Owens sucker edible?
The Owens sucker is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Owens sucker?
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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
Want the complete picture on the Owens sucker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Owens sucker is one of 12,519 species in the app.