How to Identify Hog Sucker

To identify Hog Sucker (Hypentelium nigricans), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically mottled with dark brown, black, and olive-green blotches over a lighter tan or yellowish background, providing excellent camouflage against rocky stream bottoms. The ventral surface is pale, often white or yellowish. Juveniles may have more pronounced dark bands.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Large, flattened head with a concave interorbital region., Prominent, fleshy, papillose lips forming a ventral sucking disc., Four to five dark, saddle-like blotches or bands across the back, which may be indistinct in larger adults., Large, somewhat protruding eyes set high on the head., Body tapers significantly towards the caudal fin.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 10-11 soft rays. Originates anterior to the pelvic fins.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins, positioned low on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins. All fins are generally clear to dusky.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Head Shape

   Look for the distinctly large, flattened head with a concave area between the eyes. This is a key distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Mouth

   Observe the large, fleshy, papillose (bumpy) lips positioned on the underside of the head, forming a suction cup-like structure.

3. 3

   Body Markings

   Identify the 4-5 dark, saddle-like blotches or bands across the back, which are usually prominent, especially in younger individuals.

4. 4

   Body Proportions

   Note the body tapering significantly from the head towards the tail, giving it a somewhat 'humpbacked' appearance.

5. 5

   Habitat Preference

   If found in clear, rocky, fast-flowing streams, it is highly likely to be a Hog Sucker.

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