Razorback Sucker
The razorback sucker is a large, bronze to yellow fish that grows to a weight of about 15 pounds and has a sharp-edged keel behind the head. Breeding males turn gray-black with a bright orange belly.
About This Species
The razorback sucker is native only to the warm-water portions of the Colorado River basin of the southwestern United States. Razorback sucker are found throughout the basin in both lake and river habitats but are most common in backwaters, floodplains, flatwater river sections and reservoirs.
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Range
Originally widespread in the Colorado River system, wild populations were reduced to a small number of individuals in the Yampa, Colorado and Gunnison rivers in Colorado. Reproducing populations remain only in the middle Green River in Utah and in an off-channel pond in the Colorado River near Grand Junction. The razorback is most often found in quiet, muddy backwaters along the river.
Habitat
Razorbacks are found in deep, clear to turbid waters of large rivers and some reservoirs over mud, sand or gravel.
Diet
Like most suckers, the razorback feeds on both plant and animal matter.
Reproduction
The razorback sucker spawns in the spring. Breeding males turn black up to the lateral line, with brilliant orange extending across the belly.