Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortjaw cisco (Coregonus zenithicus) is a freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The Shortjaw cisco is a whitefish (Salmonidae) from cold waters of the Great Lakes and cold lakes of North America. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with an adipose fin and a small mouth. As a schooling fish it swims in clear lakes and cold rivers and filters zooplankton and small invertebrates. It is a valued food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortjaw cisco?
The Shortjaw cisco has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Shortjaw cisco live?
The Shortjaw cisco lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Canada, USA
How big does the Shortjaw cisco get?
The Shortjaw cisco grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 28 cm.
Is the Shortjaw cisco dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortjaw cisco 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Coregonus
More from the family Salmonidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortjaw cisco?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortjaw cisco is one of 12,519 species in the app.