Inland Fishes of Mississippi

by Stephen T. Ross

Where was the largest bass caught in Mississippi? What streams are sometimes home to the gulf sturgeon? How can an angler tell a grass pickerel from a walleye? In Inland Fishes of Mississippi , Stephen T. Ross answers these questions and many more. Mississippi waters are some of the richest inland fish habitats in the United States. In fact, only four states have more native fish than Mississippi's 204. Inland Fishes of Mississippi is for anglers and nature lovers who want to learn more about this thriving diversity. Introductory chapters present the history of the study of fish in Mississippi, the distribution patterns of species, important conservation issues, and valuable information on identifying fish by examining body shape and structure. Following these are illustrated keys to all the families of fish known to inhabit inland waters. Each key is a detailed guide to identifying the specific species within a family of fish. Keys color photographs of freshly collected examples meanings of scientific names for fish descriptions of color and physical changes maximum sizes of fish, including records for game fish precise maps of distribution vital information on habitat requirements, feeding, and behavior tips on where to catch a species status of conservation efforts For both the casual angler and the ichthyologist, Inland Fishes of Mississippi will prove a constant resource and an irreplaceable asset for identifying, observing, and catching the state's various species.

Hardcover

First published January 28, 2002

Reviews

[Trent Marv · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alright so this must be said this, is indeed quite a robust one and as such will take quite a bit to finish. It is true to its name a coverage of the fishes found in freshwater habitats of Mississippi with some brackish forms that are found inland also included if they are common enough. Seems a bit arbitrary to some but I think it was needed as this book would be twice its size if all oceanic species were included (I'm shocked no one has made a book on marine fish of Mississippi as it seems like it'd be a perfect companion to this one.) It opens with a introduction that explores the history of study of freshwater fish before going to the coverage of the families which start with the most primitive, the jawless lampreys before going through such groups like gar, pikes, minnows, darters, and such.
Each family is introduced with a short passage that describes its evolutionary context and placement. Each species is represented by a specimen with living color and describes its appearance, habitat preference, breeding behavior, development, distribution both in Mississippi and beyond, species it could be mistaken for and how to tell them apart. As well as it's conservation status in the state which sadly in more cases than not is being endangered. I also loved the inclusion of an explanation behind the scientific names of each species which can teach you a surprising lot about Latin.
My biggest concern would be it might be a big challenge for non specialists to enjoy but I disagree with that as I think anyone who loves nature will find the book a great joy even if you're not from the Magnolia state.