Arctic Grayling
Thymallus arcticus

Arctic Grayling © Ken Lucas/Visuals Unlimited Courtesy of eNature

Species description provided by eNature
Description
To 30" (76 cm); 6 lbs (2.7 kg). Elongate, compressed; back bluish-black to purple, sides silvery blue-gray often with pinkish cast and anterior dark spots; lower sides have dark stripe from pectoral to pelvic fin, belly grayish. Head short, mouth extends to middle of eye; teeth small. Fins dusky to dark; dorsal fin with light margin, 17-25 rays; adipose fin present; caudal fin deeply forked. Lateral line complete, straight, 77-103 scales.

Habitat
Clear, cold waters of rivers, creeks, and lakes.

Range
Hudson Bay west to Alaska, south to Montana; n. Great Lakes; introduced outside native range.

Discussion
The arctic grayling is an attractive fish and one of the most important sport fishes in northern Canada and Alaska. It has been an important food source for native Alaskans in remote areas.