Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) | |||
Description The brown trout and rainbow trout are two of the world's most important gamefish species, and because of their popularity to sportfishing, their distribution has been increased by extensive introduction programs. The rainbow trout was introduced in Saskatchewan in the 1920's. The rainbow trout varies greatly in appearance and size, and there are many different races and subspecies. Most rainbow trout can be distinguished from other trout by a pinkish to red stripe along the lateral line and small black speckles on the sides, back, upper fins, and tail. The color of the fish varies from olive green to bluish on its back and silver on its sides. The mouth is large and contains strong teeth on the jaws, tongue and roof. The fish has a lifespan of about six years and the average weight for a Saskatchewan rainbow trout is about 0.9 kg to 1.4 kg.
Diet Rainbow trout thrive in cool clean streams and lakes and feed mainly on insects, insect larvae, crustaceans and fish. Algae and other forms of vegetation are also consumed on occasion. Rainbow trout are the main species of fish used in some fish farming operations in the province. They are fed a special diet which helps to enhance the pink color of their flesh.
Reproduction Spring is the time of spawning for most rainbow trout. The eggs are deposited in the gravel of a stream flowing into or out of a lake. The water is generally very shallow and the female will fan an area with her powerful tail as she rolls on her side. The eggs (1500 to 4500) are discharged into the center of the deepest part of this depression. The male fertilizes the eggs and the female prepares a new nest. Several nests may be 'built' during the spawning period which may last a day to a week. Eyed-eggs develop within twelve to twenty days and in thirty-five to forty days, the eggs hatch. These newly-hatched fish are called fry.
Habitat Stocked waterbodies in Saskatchewan include streams of Cypress Hills, Camp Ten Lake, Cora Lake, Eagle Creek Pond, and various other locations.
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