DESCRIPTION - This species is about 4-5 inches in length with a cylindrical, elongate body and large eyes. It is a brownish color with silvery sides and a white belly. Faint dark spots are sometimes present.

DISTRIBUTION - The pygmy whitefish occurs in the Columbia, Fraser, Skeena, Peace and Laird River systems in British Columbia. They thrive in lakes and flowing waters of clear and silted rivers of mountainous country.

BIOLOGY - Spawning takes place in October, November or December in shallow water of streams and lakes. The female grows faster and lives longer than the male (female-9 years and males-6 years).

RELATION TO MAN - There is no known direct economic importance except that perhaps they act as a buffer between salmon predators and young salmon.