How to Identify Utah Sucker

To identify Utah Sucker (Chasmistes muriei), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Presumed to be silvery to olive-brown dorsally, fading to lighter on the flanks and belly, typical of many lake-dwelling suckers. Specific detailed coloration is not well-documented due to its extinction.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Large, subterminal mouth with thick, papillose lips, adapted for filter-feeding., Relatively large eyes., Absence of a prominent lateral line pore system on the head, unlike some other Chasmistes species.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 10-12 rays, located mid-body.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins, relatively small.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins abdominal, located beneath the dorsal fin origin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Structure

   The most distinguishing feature was its large, subterminal mouth with thick, papillose lips, indicative of a filter-feeding lifestyle. This contrasts with the smaller, more ventral mouths of bottom-feeding suckers.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   An elongated, somewhat cylindrical body, typical of open-water fish.

3. 3

   Geographic Location

   Historically, its presence was restricted solely to Utah Lake and its immediate drainage.

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