How to Identify Bigmouth Buffalo

To identify Bigmouth Buffalo (Ictiobus cyprinellus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically dark olive to brownish-bronze, fading to lighter olive or silvery-gray on the sides and a whitish belly. Fins are usually dusky or dark. Coloration can vary with habitat and age.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Large, subterminal, oblique mouth that is upward-pointing when closed, lacking barbels., Deep, compressed body, giving it a 'buffalo' or 'gourdhead' appearance., Long, sickle-shaped dorsal fin with 25-31 rays., Large, cycloid scales., Absence of a lateral line on the head.

Dorsal fin

Single, long, and high dorsal fin, typically with 25-31 soft rays. The anterior rays are significantly longer than the posterior ones, giving it a sickle-like shape.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small and low-set pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located well behind the pectoral fins. Anal fin is short with 9-11 rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Position and Shape

   The most distinguishing feature is its large, subterminal mouth that points upwards when closed. It lacks barbels, unlike carp.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin

   Possesses a long, sickle-shaped dorsal fin with 25-31 rays, which is a key differentiator from other buffalo species.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Its deep, compressed body gives it a characteristic 'buffalo' profile, distinct from the more elongated body of the Smallmouth Buffalo.

4. 4

   Scale Size

   Has relatively large scales compared to other suckers.

5. 5

   Coloration

   Generally dark olive to brownish on the back, fading to lighter sides and a white belly. This can vary with water clarity and substrate.

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