Eastslope sculpin COSEWIC assessment and status report: chapter 12

Special Significance of the Species

The “Eastslope” sculpin appears to be an unrecognized taxon within the western “mottled” sculpin complex. Regardless of taxonomy, it has a very limited distribution both within Alberta and nationally, apparently present in only three river systems including the St. Mary and Milk rivers in Alberta, and the Flathead River system in British Columbia. This genetically distinct sculpin represents an evolutionarily important component of species diversity for fish fauna in Canada and should therefore receive a high level of protection.

The life history and behaviour of the “Eastslope” sculpin suggest a relatively sedentary species with limited dispersal. Given this feature and the fact that these sculpins appear to prefer cooler waters and clean substrates, this fish would make an excellent biomonitor of environmental conditions

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