Mongolian Grayling

Mongolian grayling is an endemic salmonid of western Mongolia. Its isolated lake and river populations are a signature part of the Altai and Great Lakes freshwater fauna. Like other graylings it has a tall, sail-like dorsal fin, but it is robust and short-snouted, with a comparatively large mouth suited to taking substantial prey.

It occurs in the Khovd, Zavkhan and Bogd rivers and in lakes including Khar Us, Khar, Achit, Tolbo, Airag, Khoton, Horgon and Dayan. It feeds on aquatic invertebrates and, especially when large, other fish. Adults use rivers and tributaries as spawning habitat. The Khovd River system and lakes of Khar Us Nuur National Park are the most practical parts of its documented range.