How to Identify Creek Chubsucker

To identify Creek Chubsucker (Erimyzon oblongus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically olive-brown to dark green, fading to silvery or yellowish-white on the ventral side. Juveniles often exhibit a prominent dark lateral stripe or blotches that fade with age. Fins are usually dusky or clear.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Deep, compressed body, Large, cycloid scales, Protracted, subterminal mouth with thick, fleshy lips lacking papillae, No lateral line (or very faint and incomplete), No barbels

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 10-12 soft rays, located midway along the back.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively small and low-set.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins. Anal fin is short with 7-8 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a deep, compressed body, which is characteristic of the genus Erimyzon.

2. 2

   Mouth

   Observe the subterminal, protractile mouth with thick, fleshy lips that lack papillae. This distinguishes it from other suckers with papillose lips.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   Note the absence or extreme faintness/incompleteness of the lateral line, a key feature for Erimyzon species.

4. 4

   Scales

   The scales are relatively large compared to many other sucker species.

5. 5

   Coloration (Juveniles)

   Juveniles often have a distinct dark lateral stripe or blotches, which can be a good identifier before they fade in adults.

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