Description

Gila elegans can be distinguished from similar species Gila cypha by having terminal mouth, angle along anal fin base continues well above caudal fin, more slender caudal peduncle, smaller hump on nape, usually dorsal fin with 10 rays; and 75-99 scales on lateral line. Breeding males with red lower side and pectoral and anal-fin bases (Ref. 86798).

Common Names

No common names available.

Taxonomic Hierarchy

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Teleostei

Order: Cypriniformes

Family: Leuciscidae

Genus: Gila

Species: Gila elegans Baird & Girard, 1853

Climate Zone

Location

Biology

Inhabits flowing pools and backwaters, usually over mud or rock. Streamlined body may suggest occasional occurrence in swift runs (Ref. 86798).

Habitat

benthopelagic