Delving into the depths of North America’s cold, clear, freshwater lakes, we discover an iconic resident: the Lake Trout, or Salvelinus namaycush. This species, native to many parts of Alaska and Canada, as well as parts of the northern United States, is much more than a game fish for ardent anglers. With a lifespan that can stretch up to six decades, the Lake Trout stands as a testament to the adaptability and resilience of nature.
| Lake Trout | Salvelinus namaycush |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Torpedo shaped, laterally compressed body |
| Scales | Ctenoid (rough to the touch) |
| Fins | Two dorsal fins, one adipose fin, one anal fin, one caudal fin, two pelvic fins, two pectoral fins |
| Mouth Position | Terminal (at the tip of the head) |
| Habitat | Deep, cold lakes; prefers water temperatures of 40-55°F (4-12°C) |
| Feeding Behavior | Opportunistic predator, feeding mainly in the early morning and late evening |
| Diet | Zooplankton (as juveniles), fish, and insects (as adults) |
| Reproduction | Broadcast spawner, does not build nests, spawns in the fall |
| Size | Typically 24-36 inches (61-91 cm), can reach up to 50 inches (127 cm) |
| Lifespan | Up to 20 years commonly, can live up to 60 years |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) according to IUCN |
| States Found In | Total 26: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin |
