Identification and Range
This profile covers Moxostoma ariommum, also found under the older name Scartomyzon ariommus. Large eyes and the shape of the upper head are useful clues. Within North Carolina, its distribution is concentrated in the upper Dan River portion of the Roanoke basin.
Size and Weight
A reported maximum total length of 22 cm is approximately 8.7 inches, including the tail. A dependable measured maximum weight was not established. Size records for redhorses or other jumprocks are not substituted for this species.
Habitat
Adults typically occupy deeper runs and pools with rubble or boulders, and occur less often in riffles. Research comparing upper Roanoke suckers examines differences in habitat use and body form, illustrating how related fishes can occupy distinct parts of the same river.
Feeding and Fishing Knowledge
Species-specific dietary studies exist, but the detailed prey results were not available in the material verified for this profile. Its membership in the sucker family alone does not justify a precise list of foods or a tested bait recommendation. For field observation, habitat and head features provide firmer identification guidance.
Sharing the River Without Sharing Every Habitat
Bigeye Jumprock belongs to a diverse community of Roanoke River suckers. Its use of deeper rocky habitat is a useful reminder that one generic description cannot capture the preferences of every member of that community.
All Lakes With Bigeye Jumprock
Browse all lakes and reservoirs with confirmed Bigeye Jumprock records in our database, listed alphabetically.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.