Water conditions:
* Temperature: They prefer cooler waters, typically between 5°C (41°F) and 25°C (77°F).
* Oxygen levels: White suckers require well-oxygenated water, often found in flowing streams and rivers.
* Clarity: They prefer clear water, allowing them to easily find food and avoid predators.
* pH: They are tolerant of a range of pH levels, but prefer slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Bottom type:
* Sandy or gravelly: They prefer a sandy or gravelly bottom, as this allows them to use their mouths for foraging and digging.
* Rocky: They can also be found in rocky areas, especially if there are crevices for hiding.
Other factors:
* Vegetation: While not essential, they may prefer areas with some vegetation for shelter and food sources.
* Current: They can tolerate moderate currents, but prefer areas with slower-moving water for feeding and resting.
Specific habitats:
* Rivers and streams: White suckers are commonly found in rivers and streams with clear, flowing water.
* Lakes and ponds: They can also be found in lakes and ponds, but prefer areas with cooler water and a gravelly bottom.
Key points:
* White suckers are bottom-dwelling fish, using their mouths to sift through sediment for food.
* They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of organisms, including insects, algae, and small invertebrates.
* They are important members of the ecosystem, playing a role in nutrient cycling and as a food source for larger fish.
In summary: White sucker fish prefer cool, clear, well-oxygenated waters with a sandy or gravelly bottom. They are adaptable fish but thrive in habitats that provide them with ample food and shelter.