Trouts
Family name: Salmonidae
Trout, char, salmon and whitefish are among the most desired game fish on the planet. These fish are identifiable by their sleek, fusiform body shape, smooth scales and adipose fin. Many species are brightly colored. This family of fish is native only to the northern hemisphere but is circumpolar and found in Asia, Europe and North America. These fish have been introduced globally, however. In New York, representatives are found in all types of waters, from headwater brooks to the largest lakes and river main channels. Whitefishes (Coregonus and Prosopium) are almost exclusively lake dwellers. The other genera are found in both flowing and standing waters. One species is threatened and another is extirpated. Of the 17 species reported from New York, six are exotic.
