Paddlefish Polydon spathula

The paddlefish is native to the Mississippi River basin, requiring large expanses of free-flowing river in which to complete its life cycle. Paddlefish are one of the few true large river species found in Minnesota. They have a long, paddle-like snout and a shark-like tail. Their body is scaleless except for a small patch of scales on the caudal (tail) fin. Small barbels are present on the under surface of the paddle near the mouth. Their diet is primarily plankton, which are detected by special sensors in the snout. In early spring when water temperatures reach about 50°F(10°C), spawning occurs over gravel bars in temporarily flooded tributaries. Eggs hatch in 7 days. Males mature at 7-9 years and most females at 9-12 years. Mature adults probably do not spawn every year. Paddlefish are long-lived species, surviving for at least 20 years.