People often have trouble telling the differences between the cutthroat trout and rainbow trout. Are you looking to learn more about these two species of fish?
These two types of trout are part of the salmonid family, sharing characteristics such as a lack of scales on their cheeks, snowflake-like markings on their backs and a slender body shape with a rounded tail. While they may be similar in some ways, there are distinct differences that can help you tell them apart when you see them.
The cutthroat trout, native to western North America, is distinguished by its colorful red slash beneath its jaw. The rainbow trout is popular around the world for sport fishing and eating. There are also hybrid versions known as cutbows — a cross between a cutthroat and rainbow trout — but those are less common. Here’s an overview of the cutthroat vs. rainbow trout, along with information on growth rates and size comparisons.
Cutthroat Trout
The cutthroat trout is a species of freshwater fish native to western North America. It is distinguished by its bright red slash beneath the jaw, which gives it its name. Cutthroat trout are typically smaller than rainbow trout, with an average size of 12-18 inches and a maximum size of around 24 inches. They can live up to 10 years in the wild and grow at a slower rate than rainbow trout.
Rainbow Trout
The rainbow trout is a species of freshwater fish native to the Pacific Ocean, but it has been introduced around the world for sport fishing and eating. It is distinguished by its bright pink or red stripe along its side, which gives it its name. Rainbow trout are typically larger than cutthroat trout, with an average size of 18-24 inches and a maximum size of around 36 inches. They can live up to 15 years in the wild and grow at a faster rate than cutthroat trout.
Cutthroat Trout vs Rainbow Trout
When it comes to the differences between cutthroat trout and rainbow trout, size is one of the most obvious. Cutthroat trout are typically smaller than rainbow trout, with an average size of 12-18 inches and a maximum size of around 24 inches. Rainbow trout are typically larger, with an average size of 18-24 inches and a maximum size of around 36 inches. Another difference between the two species is their growth rate. Cutthroat trout grow at a slower rate than rainbow trout, while rainbow trout grow at a faster rate. Finally, the most obvious difference between the two species is their coloration. The cutthroat trout is distinguished by its bright red slash beneath the jaw, while the rainbow trout is distinguished by its bright pink or red stripe along its side. In terms of habitat, both cutthroat trout and rainbow trout prefer cold, clean water with plenty of oxygen. They can be found in rivers, streams, lakes and ponds. Cutthroat trout are native to western North America while rainbow trout have been introduced around the world for sport fishing and eating. When it comes to diet, both species feed on insects, crustaceans and small fish.
FAQs on Cutthroat Trout Vs Rainbow Trout
The cutthroat trout is named for the bright red slash beneath its jaw, which gives it its name. No, steelhead trout is a different species of fish that is closely related to the rainbow trout. Steelhead trout are anadromous, meaning they migrate from freshwater to saltwater and back again during their life cycle. No, rainbow trout is a mild-tasting fish with a delicate flavor. It can be cooked in a variety of ways, including baking, grilling and poaching. Yes, rainbow trout is generally considered to be a healthier option than salmon. Rainbow trout is lower in fat and calories than salmon, and it is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. You can tell if a trout is a cutthroat by looking for the bright red slash beneath its jaw. Both cutthroat trout and rainbow trout are considered to be excellent tasting fish. The flavor of the fish will depend on the type of water it lives in, as well as its diet. No, trout is generally considered to be low in mercury. However, it is important to check with local health advisories before consuming any fish from a particular body of water, as levels of mercury can vary depending on the location. Why are they called cutthroat trout?
Is steelhead trout the same as rainbow trout?
Is rainbow trout a fishy tasting fish?
Is rainbow trout healthier than salmon?
How do you tell if a trout is a cutthroat?
Which trout is the best tasting?
Is trout high in mercury?
Conclusion
Cutthroat trout and rainbow trout are both part of the salmonid family, but they have distinct differences that make them easy to tell apart. Cutthroat trout are smaller with an average size of 12-18 inches and a bright red slash beneath the jaw, while rainbow trout are larger with an average size of 18-24 inches and a bright pink or red stripe along its side. Cutthroat trout grow at a slower rate than rainbow trout, and can live up to 10 years in the wild. Rainbow trout grow at a faster rate than cutthroat trout, and can live up to 15 years in the wild.
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