Systematics, Distribution and Life History Notes on Notropis chihuahua (Pisces: Cyprinidae)
Burr BM and Mayden RL. 1981. Systematics, Distribution and Life History Notes on Notropis chihuahua (Pisces: Cyprinidae). Copeia. 1981(2):255-265
The poorly known Chihuahua shiner, Notropis chihuahua, is redescribed. The species typically occurs in small to medium-sized, gravelly or sandy clear streams within the Chihuahuan Desert region of northern Mexico and the Big Bend region of Texas. Because of recent modifications occurring in the Chihuahuan Desert the species should be monitored closely to assess its status and ecological requirements. Notropis chihuahua is compared to similar-appearing species on the basis of head and body physiognomy, tubercle pattern, coloration and overall similarity in numerous meristic features. Notropis chihuahua grows to a maximum of 64 mm SL and lives at least two years. The spawning season is protracted and lasts from March to early August. Females contain 400 to 900 mature ova and the sex ratio varies from 1.6 males:1 female to 1.3 males:1 female. Intestinal contents reveal a preference for small aquatic insects; the dominant intestinal parasite is a nematode
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Burr, Brooks; Mayden, Richard
- Units
- BIBE
- Keywords
- Animal Studies, Chihuahua shiner (Notropis chihuahua) - Osteichthyes - Cyprinidae, Food, Habitats, Parasites, Spawning, Species Identification