7345

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 7345
• Author: Wick, E. J.
• USFW Year: 1975.
• Copyright Material: NO

-f ABSTRACT

The purpose of this paper is to discuss and update the
status of the rare and endangered species Gila cypha,- an en-
demic fish of the Colorado River drainage basin.
On August 22, 1974, a collection team from the Grand
Junction Office of the Colorado Division of Wildlife gill-
netted 30 specimens of Gila cypha (humpback chub). These fish
were discovered in Ruby Canyon on the Colorado river approxi-
mately 18 miles below Grand Junction. Of those captured, eight
were retained for identification.
By comparing characteristics and measurements from one fish,
sent to Colorado State-University, to known characteristics
established by Holden (3:41)• I determined the fish to be Gila
c ha (see Tab. 10.page 7).
Since 30 specimens of this species were found, a remnant
population of pure, or virtually pure, specimens is indicated.
Research should be undertaken in an attempt to maintain the
species in this apparently suitable environment.