What Is Nevada State Fish: Exploring The Silver States Aquatic Emblem

Nevada’s state fish, the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (LCT), holds a special place in the state’s natural history and identity. This unique species of trout is native to Nevada and once thrived in the ancient Lake Lahontan and its surrounding tributaries during the ice ages, dating back thousands of years. However, environmental changes and geological shifts caused Lake Lahontan to gradually recede, ultimately transforming it into remnants like Pyramid Lake and Walker Lake approximately 7,000 years ago. The Lahontan Cutthroat Trout’s designation as Nevada’s state fish is a recognition of its historical significance and its connection to the state’s ancient aquatic ecosystems.

The state of Nevada has designated several symbols to represent its diverse wildlife. One such symbol is the Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi), which was officially recognized as the state fish in 1981. Additionally, Nevada also has an official state fossil, the Ichthyosaur (Shonisaurus popularis), established in 1977. The desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) holds the distinction of being the state reptile since 1989. Representing the insect kingdom, the Vivid Dancer Damselfly (Argia vivida) became the state insect in 2009. These symbols highlight the unique and diverse fauna found in the state of Nevada.

The Lahontan cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki henshawi) holds the prestigious title of being the official State Fish of Nevada. This remarkable native trout species is a prominent resident of Nevada’s diverse aquatic ecosystems, inhabiting 14 out of the state’s 17 counties. Its adaptability is astounding, as it thrives in a wide range of environments, from the pristine, high-altitude creeks and alpine lakes of the state’s mountainous regions to the toasty, lowland streams and alkaline lakes where no other trout species can survive. This exceptional adaptability distinguishes the Lahontan cutthroat trout as a unique and vital part of Nevada’s aquatic biodiversity.