Rainbow Trout

scientific name

Oncorhynchus mykiss

size

27.5"
may be larger

characteristics

Adaptations/Coloration. "rainbow" on sides (actually reddish streak) " cold-blooded - if water 50 degrees, trout 50 degrees" "lateral line" is row of sense organs on sides " different races adapted to various conditions
Water. needs precise water conditions - cool temperature, no pollution, & abundant food " however, not as "picky" as cutthroat

reproduction/life span

Spawn. zoo Dec-Jan at zoo, wild later " have reproduced at Oregon Zoo
Fry Hatch. Mar.

diet

Wild. any small animal that can be swallowed whole & aquatic insect larvae
Zoo. Trout Chow & insects

habitat/range

native to North America west of Rocky mountains " now introduced to many parts of the world " often to detriment of local fauna " anadromus (Steelhead) & fresh water populations spawn in streams of the Pacific Northwest " landlocked populations in many inland waters

status

one of most highly sought game fish " used to stock rivers worldwide

oregon zoo exhibit

Cascades

back to top