Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Salmonid Family (Salmonidae)
Rainbow Trout or Steelhead is a coldwater salmonid fish, weighing around 8 lbs and 30 in long on average. It has a slender to robust torpedo-shaped body, which is blue-green to olive above and whitish below with reddish-pink band along each side about the midline followed by silvery lower sides. Small black spots are present over the back above the lateral line, as well as on the upper fins and tail. Mature males have the brightest colors and spawning males have lengthened jaws. All spawning fish are darker and have more prominent spots and a more intense pink stripe. Positively identified by the 8 to 12 rays in the anal fin, a mouth that does not extend past the back of the eye, and the lack of teeth at the base of the tongue. The caudal fin is not forked. Although the same species, steelhead is a sea run rainbow trout (anadromous) usually returning to their original freshwater hatching ground to spawn after 2 to 3 years at sea. It can make several spawning trips before dying. While in the ocean, it is usually more silvery or brassy overall with heavier spotting and are more slender, but larger, than freshwater rainbow trout. Young steelhead (smolts) may remain in the river for a few years before heading to the sea. Spawning occurs in gravel areas in the spring. Found native to tributaries of the Pacific Ocean in North America. Has been introduced for food and sport fishing around the world. Freshwater trout prefer cool, clear streams and lakes. Preys upon almost anything it can grab and swallow, especially immature and adult insects, plankton, crustaceans, fish, and fish eggs. Also known as salmon trout and ocean trout. Listed as endangered federally (some populations, other populations threatened), threatened in ID, species of special concern in MT & OR, protected in NV, and a candidate species in WA.
Copyright Brett Miley
