7327

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 7327
• Author: Johnson, J. E.
• Title: Status of Endangered and Threatened Fish Species in Colorado.
• USFW Year: 1976.
• USFW - Doc Type: T/N 280,
• Copyright Material: NO

A. Ptychocheilus lucius (Colorado squawfish)
1. Original Distribution - The Colorado River and its tribu-
taries (Gila, Salt, Bill Williams, Virgin, San Juan, Green,
Dolores, Gunnison, White and Yampa rivers) with spawning
migrations into the smaller tributaries.
2. General Description - Body somewhat compressed dorsoventrally,
head flattened and elongated. Mouth large, nearly horizontal.
Dorsal and anal fins almost always with nine rays. Dorsal
fin far back, originating behind insertion of pelvic fins.
Scales small, embedded (especially on breast, belly, and
nape). Skin leathery in texture. Lateral line with 80
to 95 scales. Pharyngeal arches delicate, the lower ramus
elongated and slender; teeth fragile and elongated, 2, 5-4,
2. Color olivaceous, darker above. Lower sides yellowish
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