Fallfish
Meet the Fallfish, a remarkable species indigenous to the Susquehanna River, embodying resilience in the face of environmental changes. As ambassadors of this thriving ecosystem, they play an integral role in the river's intricate balance, while their existence underscores the challenges that aquatic wildlife faces today.
With their shimmering silvery scales and a hint of iridescence, Fallfish possess a subtle elegance. Their streamlined bodies and fin designs make them a captivating subject for underwater photography.
Fallfish, often mistaken for small trout, can grow to astonishing sizes, occasionally reaching over 18 inches in length. Their substantial presence makes them a notable force within the river's ecosystem.
Unlike other fish species in the Susquehanna River, Fallfish demonstrate a specialized nesting behavior where they create mounds using gravel, stones, and other materials found in the riverbed. These mounds are carefully built by the male Fallfish.
The male Fallfish meticulously collects gravel and small stones, arranging them in a circular or oval-shaped mound on the riverbed. This construction process involves moving and arranging materials to create a raised structure, which serves as the foundation for the nest.
Once the mound is formed, the male Fallfish excavates a depression or pit within the mound where the female will deposit her eggs. This structure provides a secure and elevated space for the eggs, protecting them from potential threats and ensuring adequate oxygen flow.
After the female deposits her eggs in the prepared depression, the male fertilizes them, and both parents guard the nest fiercely. The elevated nature of the mound offers advantages in terms of water circulation and protection against predators.