Alvord chub facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Alvord chub |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Siphateles
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| Species: |
alvordensis
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| Synonyms | |
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Gila alvordensis Hubbs & Miller, 1972 |
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The Alvord chub (Siphateles alvordensis) is a special and rare type of fish. It belongs to the carp and minnow family. You can only find this fish in one specific place: the Alvord basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada, in the United States. It lives in a few springs, streams, and marshy areas, mostly within the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge.
Contents
What is the Alvord Chub?
The Alvord chub is a small fish. Adult Alvord chubs can grow up to about 14 centimeters (5.5 inches) long. However, many of them are only half that size. This fish is usually grayish-white. It is darker on its back and lighter on its belly. It also has a faint band that runs along its sides. The Alvord chub is quite similar to another fish called the Borax Lake chub.
What Does the Alvord Chub Eat?
The Alvord chub is an opportunistic feeder. This means it eats whatever food it can find easily. Studies show that its diet includes many different kinds of small animals that live in water. A large part of its diet is made up of midge larvae, which are tiny insect babies.
Where Does the Alvord Chub Live?
This fish can live in many different types of watery places within its home range. It can be found in water that is only 3 inches (7.6 cm) deep, or in water as deep as 3 feet (91 cm). It also lives in areas with different kinds of bottoms, like gravel or soft mud (silt). The Alvord chub likes places with some cover over the water, like plants or rocks. It can even live in warm springs, where the water can be up to 80°F (27°C). However, it does not live in very hot springs.
When Do Alvord Chubs Lay Eggs?
The Alvord chub's spawning season, which is when they lay their eggs, lasts for several months. It begins in April and continues through July.
Why is the Alvord Chub Vulnerable?
Even though the Alvord chub seems to be doing well in its current locations, it is considered a vulnerable species. This means it needs protection. The main reason for this is that it lives in a very small area. This area is also a fragile environment. The Alvord chub has evolved over time without having to compete with other fish. Because of this, there is concern about what might happen if new types of fish are introduced. These new fish, called exotic fish, could be brought in on purpose or by accident. They might compete with the Alvord chub for food or space, which could harm the Alvord chub population.
See also
In Spanish: Gila alvordensis para niños
