Shorthead Redhorse - Moxostoma macrolepidotum
Global Rank:
G5
State Rank:
S5
Agency Status
USFWS:
none
USFS:
none
BLM:
none
CFWCS Tier:
3
General Description
The shorthead redhorse is native to Montana and typically found in the shallow, swift waters of larger rivers in our eastern drainage. Its maximum size in Montana is about 5 pounds. Their natural silver-green coloration is offset by bright red fins. Shorthead redhorse are frequently caught on baited hooks.
Diagnostic Characteristics
Sides golden or silvery, back olive to brown with golden reflections, underside white to yellow. No other Montana sucker has a red tail fin.
Distribution
Montana Range
Observations in Montana: 171
Montana CountiesBig Horn, Blaine, Carbon, Carter, Cascade, Chouteau, Custer, Daniels, Dawson, Fallon, Fergus, Golden Valley, Hill, Liberty, McCone, Musselshell, Petroleum, Phillips, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Roosevelt, Rosebud, Sweet Grass, Teton, Treasure, Valley, Wibaux, Yellowstone
Habitat
Moderately large rivers with sand, gravel or rocky bottom, intermediate temperatures, and swift current.
Citations & Sources
- Holton, G. D. 2003. A field guide to Montana fishes. Mont. Dept. Fish, Wildl. Parks, 95 pp.