Overview
The Shorthead Redhorse is a relatively widespread species of the northeastern U.S. and Canada. Three subspecies are recognized. One is widespread in the Ohio basin, another in the Ozark uplands and adjacent areas, and the third throughout the remainder of the species' range. This is by far the most wide ranging and common species of sucker as well as being one of the most colorful. The fins range from bright orange to deep red and the sides from silver to gold or bronze. The belly is lighter, ranging from dusky yellow to milk white. The fins contain only soft rays and there are no teeth. Typical of the redhorse is the single dorsal fin located near the middle of the back. The edge of the dorsal fin on the shorthead is emarginate or concave, distinguishing it from the silver redhorse, Moxostoma anisurum, in which the top edge of the dorsal fin is rounded. As its name indicates the shorthead has an unusually short head (17 19% of the fish's total length). There are no scales on the head.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Cypriniformes
- Family
- Catostomidae
- Genus
- Moxostoma
- Species
- macrolepidotum
Habitat
Shorthead redhorse primarily inhabit clear, flowing rivers and streams with gravel or rocky substrates, often in larger systems like the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basin. They prefer moderate to fast currents and avoid stagnant or murky waters, commonly found in the northeastern United States and Canada. These fish thrive in areas with good water quality and oxygen levels.
Diet
Shorthead redhorse feed mainly on aquatic insects, small crustaceans, and mollusks, which they suck from the river bottom using their specialized mouth. They exhibit bottom-feeding behavior primarily during daylight hours, foraging in riffles and runs. Their diet also includes occasional plant matter or detritus when insect prey is scarce.
Behavior
Shorthead redhorse are generally solitary or form loose schools in open water, becoming more active during daylight hours in warmer months. They migrate upstream in spring for spawning and are sensitive to water pollution, often avoiding disturbed habitats. These fish exhibit minimal territorial behavior except during reproduction, and they are known for their agility in fast currents.
Fishing
It has some value as a sport fish today and is actively sought by a good number of anglers. The flesh of the shorthead is tasty and sweet, but contains many small bones.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.