Observations on the natural history of the blue sucker (Cycleptus elongatus Le Sueur) in the Neosho River [Kansas]

Populations of blue suckers in the Neosho River in Kansas were sampled by electrofishing during the spring and summer of 1976 and 1977 Spawning occurred in deep riffles (1-2 m) with cobble and bedrock substrates in May at water temperatures of 20-23 C. By August, juveniles averaged 125 mm in length. Mature females reach greater maximum ages, weights and lengths (9 years, 4.1 kg, 763 mm T.L.) than males (7 years, 3.7 kg, 749 mm T.L.). In general, adult females were larger than adult males. Condition coefficients vary slightly with time of year. Only a few juveniles were captured, but young blue suckers occupied shallower and less swift water than adults. Laboratory stream observations confirm a preference for smooth substrates in swift current. Food of adults and young consisted primarily of insect larvae and plant material. Blue suckers seem limited by habitat, especially during spawning.