Gila elegans Baird & Girard, 1853
Bonytail
Gila elegans
photo by Gratwicke, B.

Family:  Leuciscidae (Minnows), subfamily: Laviniinae
Max. size:  62 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater, potamodromous
Distribution:  North America: Colorado River drainage in Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona and California in USA; and Mexico.
Diagnosis:  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).
Biology:  Inhabits flowing pools and backwaters, usually over mud or rock. Streamlined body may suggest occasional occurrence in swift runs (Ref. 86798).
IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered (CR); Date assessed: 08 February 2012 (B1ab(v)+2ab(v); C2a(i)) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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