Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi

Lahontan cutthroat trout

Family: Salmonidae · Class: Actinopterygii · Order: Salmoniformes

Conservation status: Threatened · G4T3 S2

The Lahontan cutthroat trout is a large freshwater fish native to the Lahontan basin of Nevada, California, and Utah. Adults typically measure 300 to 600 mm (12 to 24 inches) in length, though historically some individuals exceeded 1 meter (39 inches). The species exhibits distinctive reddish-orange slash marks beneath the jaw, characteristic of cutthroat trout. Body coloration varies from olive-green to bronze on the dorsal surface with silvery sides, and numerous small black spots scattered across the head, body, and fins. The spots extend below the lateral line, distinguishing this subspecies from other cutthroat trout. Historically, Lahontan cutthroat trout occupied the Lahontan basin, including Pyramid Lake and Lake Tahoe in Nevada and California, plus numerous tributary streams and smaller lakes. The species once ranged throughout the Truckee, Carson, and Walker river systems. Currently, the native range has been severely reduced, with populations persisting in isolated stream segments and some lakes in Nevada, northeastern California, and southeastern Oregon. In California, remnant populations exist in tributary streams of the eastern Sierra Nevada. Lahontan cutthroat trout inhabit cool, clear streams and lakes at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 meters (4,000 to 9,800 feet). Stream populations prefer areas with cobble and gravel substrates, undercut banks, and adequate cover from overhanging vegetation or large rocks. Lake populations utilize deeper waters during summer months and move to tributary streams or shallow areas for spawning. Water temperatures between 10 to 18°C (50 to 64°F) are optimal for growth and reproduction. Adult Lahontan cutthroat trout are opportunistic predators, feeding on aquatic insects, crustaceans, and smaller fish. In lake environments, they consume zooplankton, amphipods, and other fish species. Spawning occurs from April through June, depending on elevation and water temperature. Adults migrate to tributary streams or shallow lake areas to spawn over gravel beds. Females excavate redds and deposit 2,000 to 4,000 eggs, which incubate for 4 to 7 months depending on water temperature. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Lahontan cutthroat trout as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1975. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the species was originally listed by USFWS under the scientific name Salmo clarki henshawi. Primary threats include habitat degradation from livestock grazing, water diversions, and competition with non-native trout species. Hybridization with rainbow trout has compromised genetic integrity of some populations. Recovery efforts focus on habitat restoration, removal of non-native species, and reestablishment of populations in suitable waters through captive breeding programs. The Nevada Department of Wildlife and other agencies maintain broodstock populations to support ongoing restoration efforts throughout the species' historical range.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.