Other Common Names:

New Mexico Cutthroat Trout

State Record:

N/A

Identifying Features:

Rio Grande cutthroat trout have a yellowish-green to gray-brown body with scattered black spots. They have a densely spotted tail.

Typical Adult:

Length: Up to 10 inches
Weight: Up to 1 pounds
Life span: Up to 8 years

Habitat:

Rio Grande cutthroat trout inhabit mountain streams and rivers.

Feeding Behavior:

Rio Grande cutthroat trout feed on insects, zooplankton, and crustaceans.

Reproductive Behavior (Spawning):

When: Spring or summer
Preferred Water Temperature: 48-52° F
How: The female lays between 200 to 4,500 eggs on a gravel nest in flowing water where high levels of dissolved oxygen exist.

Did You Know:

The Rio Grande cutthroat trout is the southernmost species of cutthroats.

The introduction of the rainbow trout led a decline in the populations of Rio Grande cutthroat trout, combined with early logging, grazing, and hunting practices.