Mooneye
From Free net encyclopedia
{{Taxobox
| color = pink
| name = Mooneyes
| regnum = Animalia
| phylum = Chordata
| classis = Actinopterygii
| ordo = Hiodontiformes
| familia = Hiodontidae
| genus = Hiodon
| subdivision_ranks = Species
| subdivision =
Hiodon alosoides
Hiodon tergisus
Hiodon consteniorum (extinct)
}}
The mooneyes are a family Hiodontidae of primitive ray-finned fish comprising two living and one extinct species in the genus Hiodon.
The mooneye, Hiodon tergisus Lesueur 1818, is widespread across North America, living in the clear waters of lakes, ponds, and rivers. It consumes aquatic invertebrates, insects, and fish. Mooneyes can reach 47 cm in length.
Mooneyes feed readily on terrestrial insects, and will provide fine sport for an intrepid flyrod angler. They will also take small lures and natural baits with gusto. Mooneyes are frantic, hyperactive fish and their impressive leaps and passionate fighting style has earned them the nickname "Freshwater Tarpon."
The goldeye, Hiodon alosoides Rafinesque 1819, is also widespread across North America, and is notable for a conspicious golden iris in the eyes. It prefers turbid slower-moving waters of lakes and rivers, where it feeds on insects, crustaceans, fish, frogs, shrews, and mice. It has been reported up to 52 cm in length. The smoked meat is highly valued and sold as "Winnipeg goldeye".
The goldeye also lends its name to the Winnipeg Goldeyes baseball team.