Fin's Fish Guide
The River redhorse (Moxostoma carinatum) is a freshwater fish of the family Catostomidae that grows up to 77 cm.
Description
The river redhorse is a large sucker (Catostomidae) from fresh water of eastern North America. The species grows to about 77 cm and has an elongate, coppery body with large scales, reddish fins and an inferior, fleshy sucking mouth. As a bottom-dweller it lives in clear flowing water of medium and large rivers and sucks molluscs, especially snails and mussels, and insect larvae from the bottom. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the River redhorse?
The River redhorse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Fleshy inferior sucker mouth; snail-eating sucker
Where does the River redhorse live?
The River redhorse lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern North America
How big does the River redhorse get?
The River redhorse grows to a maximum of about 77 cm. On average the species is around 48 cm.
Is the River redhorse dangerous to humans?
No, the River 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 River redhorse edible?
The River 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 River redhorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the River redhorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.