- SCIENTIFIC NAME
- Xyrauchen texanus
- CLASSIFICATION
- Fish
- LIFE SPAN
- 10-40 Years
- SIZE
- 18-36” | 5-15lbs
- STATE CONSERVATION STATUS
-
- Endangered
- Priority Species
- State Protected
- FEDERAL CONSERVATION STATUS
- Endangered
- GAME STATUS
- Non-Game
- GAME TYPE
- None
- Washoe
- Humboldt
- Pershing
- Churchill
- Mineral
- Lyon
- Douglas
- Carson City
- Storey
- Elko
- Lander
- Eureka
- White Pine
- Esmeralda
- Nye
- Lincoln
- Clark
Habitat & Range
Lake Mead and Lake Mohave are key habitats for these large fish. They can also be found in the lower Colorado River.
- Lakes and reservoirs
- Rivers and streams
Threats
- Dams
- Invasive Species
- Predation
Adult Razorback Suckers migrate to riverbeds and cobble bars to spawn, typically in the spring or late winter. They lay their eggs on these substrates, where the fertilization process occurs. Each female releases approximately 10 to 12 eggs per spawning event. The eggs have a gestation period of about three to four weeks, with hatching success largely dependent on water temperature. Eggs exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) are unlikely to survive.
Razorback Suckers primarily feed on algae, macroinvertebrates (such as insects and crustaceans), microinvertebrates, and plankton. They also consume larvae and decomposing plant material found on the river or lake beds. This varied diet helps them thrive in their aquatic environments.
Fun Facts
OTHER Species
