Fin's Fish Guide
The Thicktail chub (Gila crassicauda) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The thicktail chub was a cyprinid (Leuciscidae) from slow-flowing lowland rivers, marshes and lakes of the Central Valley of California in the United States. The species grew to about 30 cm and had a stocky, dark body with a strikingly thick tail base. As an omnivore it swam in turbid water and ate insect larvae, small crustaceans and plant matter. Through drainage and habitat loss it became extinct in the twentieth century. The fish was harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Thicktail chub?
The Thicktail chub has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Thicktail chub live?
The Thicktail chub lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Thicktail chub get?
The Thicktail chub grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Thicktail chub dangerous to humans?
No, the Thicktail chub 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 Gila
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Thicktail chub?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Thicktail chub is one of 12,519 species in the app.