Nocomis sp.

During breeding season, large chubs display bumps on their heads; that’s why their nickname is “horny heads.” And the nickname isn’t the only unusual thing about these fish.

During April and May, male bluehead or bull chubs build fish nurseries underwater. The male picks up rocks in its mouth and drops them to create a mound. Some “nests” are as big as 3½ feet across. After spawning, eggs drop into gaps between stones, safe until hatching. The male chub defends against larger fishes, but lets smaller minnows populate the nursery. Most species in the nest sport brilliant red breeding colors. Anyone lucky enough to spot one of these would have a hard time believing it this side of a coral reef.

Bluehead chub

Bull chub

Cool Link:

Ode to the Lowly and Regal Chub - A Cherokee legend about a "horned fish" king may have arisen from observations of the common river chub. From the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association Web site.

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photos: Richard T. Bryant