Ferox trout facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ferox trout |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Salmo
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| Species: |
ferox
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The Ferox trout (Salmo ferox) is a special type of trout. It lives in clear, cold lakes, often called "lochs" in Scotland. You can find these fish in Ireland, England, Scotland, and Wales.
Ferox trout are known for being large and for eating other fish. In Scotland, they often eat Arctic char. Scientists have studied them to see if they are a completely different species from regular brown trout (Salmo trutta). This is because Ferox trout in the same lakes often do not breed with the brown trout. However, it's not clear if all Ferox trout from different lakes are related in the same way. These fish can grow quite long, up to about 80 centimeters (31 inches).
About Ferox Trout
Ferox trout are a unique kind of brown trout. They are famous for growing very big. The name "ferox" means "fierce" or "wild," which fits their nature as fish-eaters.
What Makes Them Special
Ferox trout are different from other trout in a few ways.
- Size: They can grow much larger than typical brown trout in the same lakes.
- Diet: They are mostly piscivorous, meaning they eat other fish. This diet helps them grow to their large size.
- Habitat: They prefer deep, cold, and very clear lakes. These lakes usually do not have a lot of nutrients, which is why they are called "oligotrophic."
- Breeding: In some lakes, Ferox trout seem to breed separately from other brown trout. This makes scientists wonder if they are a distinct species.
Where They Live
Ferox trout are found in certain lakes across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
- In Scotland, they live in many deep lochs.
- They are also found in some lakes in Ireland, England, and Wales.
These lakes are usually very clear and cold, which is perfect for these large fish.
Are They a Different Species?
For a long time, people have debated if Ferox trout are a separate species.
- Some scientists believe they are a distinct species because they don't often breed with other brown trout in the same lake.
- However, other experts think they are just a special type of brown trout that has adapted to eating fish and growing large.
- Currently, authorities in Scotland do not consider Ferox trout to be a separate species from Salmo trutta. They see them as a unique form of brown trout.
