Introduction
The Mississippi River, the second longest river in North America, is home to a wide variety of fish that thrive in its diverse aquatic environment. The river’s deep channels contain the greatest diversity of species, but there are also smaller fish living on the river’s shallow, gravel bars and muddy bottoms. From catfish to sturgeon, these fish provide a valuable source of food and recreation. They also play a key role in the health of the Mississippi’s ecosystem, influencing water chemistry and acting as food sources for larger predators like bald eagles and ospreys. In this article, we will explore the different types of fish found in the Mississippi River, explaining their unique characteristics and behaviors, in addition to the pressures they face and the threats they are exposed to.
Types of Fish Found in the Mississippi
The Mississippi River is teeming with life, hosting a variety of species of both native and nonnative fish. These fish can be divided into four main categories based on habitat: The Big Three (Catfish, Carp, and Redhorse), Cyprinids (Gizzard Shad, Common Carp, and White Sucker), Salmonids (River Herring and Chubs), and Non-Game Species (Sauger and Bowfin).
The most iconic and abundant fishes in the Mississippi River are the Big Three — Catfish, Carp and Redhorse. Catfish are one of the largest fish species in the Mississippi River, and the most iconic. Their incredibly sharp taste buds help them to find and feed on small fish and invertebrates, in addition to their natural diet of plants and grasses. Carp are another large fish species in the Mississippi River and are classified as a game fish. Carp can feed on almost anything they find, including algae, crustaceans, and insects. Like Catfish, they can also sometimes be found in large groups. Redhorse, on the other hand, are more of solitary species. Although they are more shy than the Catfish and Carp, Redhorse can grow very large, often exceeding 1 meter in length.
Cyprinids, such as the Gizzard Shad and Common Carp, are some of the most important species in the Mississippi River. They provide an important food source for game fish and other aquatic predators. The Gizzard Shad is actually the most abundant of the Cyprinids, as well as the most valuable, due to its abundance of tiny silver scales and subtle, sweet flavor. Common Carp, on the other hand, are considered to be an invasive species in the Mississippi River and can threaten native fish populations by competing for resources.
The Salmonids, such as the River Herring and Chubs, are an important species in the Mississippi River. The River Herring are an economically important species, as they are commonly used in recreational and commercial fisheries. Chubs, on the other hand, are an important smaller species in the Mississippi River and play an important role in the river’s ecosystem by providing food for larger predators.
Finally, the Non-Game Species in the Mississippi River include Sauger and Bowfin. These species are not typically targeted by recreational and commercial fisheries, as they tend to be less desirable as food. Sauger are most commonly found in the deeper, rocky waters of the Mississippi River, while Bowfins are typically found in its shallower, muddy parts.
Threats to Fish
Unfortunately, the fish living in the Mississippi River are facing many threats to their continued existence. The biggest threats are caused by human activities, such as pollution and habitat destruction. Pollution from industrial, agricultural, and domestic sources can have incredibly damaging effects on the river’s ecosystem, making it difficult for fish to survive. Habitat destruction from dams and levees also disrupts the natural flow of the Mississippi River, making it difficult for fish to find suitable habitat. In addition, invasive species such as the Asian Carp have entered the Mississippi River and are competing with native fish species for food and other resources.
Protection of Fish Species
Fortunately, there are steps being taken to protect fish species living in the Mississippi River. The US Fish and Wildlife Service, for example, has established a network of national wildlife refuges to ensure the protection of certain fish species. In addition, the US Army Corps of Engineers is working to protect and restore the fish population by improving water quality, restoring fish habitats, and controlling invasive species.
Recreational Fishing
Recreational fishing is an incredibly popular way to enjoy the Mississippi River. Anglers can catch a variety of species, including the Catfish, Carp, Redhorse, and other Cyprinids, as well as Salmonids such as the River Herring. Regulations are in place to protect fish populations, and fishing licenses are required in Mississippi. There are also a number of fishing guides, charters, and lodges that specialize in guiding fishing trips on the Mississippi River.
Conservation and Protection Efforts
In addition to measures taken to protect and conserve fish species, there are also efforts to educate the public and provide incentives to protect the river and its wildlife. Public education is key, as people need to be aware of the importance of protecting the river and its wildlife. There are also a number of conservation organizations, such as the Mississippi River Alliance and the Mississippi River Basin Alliance, that are working to protect the river and its wildlife.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is home to a wide variety of fish, from Catfish to Chubs, that provide a valuable source of food and recreation. However, these fish face a variety of threats, from pollution to invasive species, which can have devastating consequences. Fortunately, measures are being taken to protect and conserve these fish species, from the establishment of national wildlife refuges to public education campaigns. Through these efforts, we can ensure that the fish of the Mississippi River continue to thrive for generations to come.
