DESERT DACE Eremichthys acros (Hubbs and Miller, 1948) 



Order: CYPRINIFORMES Family: CYPRINIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : A monotypic genus of small minnows with 5-4 teeth, 

 prominent horny sheaths on each jaw, and fine scales (70-80 in lateral line) that 

 bear radii on all fields . 



Present distribution : Known only from Soldier Meadows west of the Black Rock Desert 

 in Humboldt County, Nevada. 



Former distribution: Believed to be a relict form that is now restricted to warm- 

 spring habitats . 



Status : Scarce. Dr. Robert R. Miller now believes this species exists in larger 

 numbers than previously known and its status should be considered less precarious 

 than previously thought, (pers . comm . Dr. Willis King). 



Estimated numbers : At least 100,000 in 1965 (Dr. R. R. Miller). 



Fecumdity : No data . 



Reasons for decline : Habitat destruction by use of bulldozer in diverting water has 

 eliminated the species from some areas where it was formerly plentiful . 



Protective measures already taken : None 



Measures proposed : Set aside part of warm-spring habitat as a sanctuary or 

 wildlife monument. 



Number in captivity : None . 



Culture potential in captivity : Unknown . 



Remarks : Like Moapa coriacea , this fish represents an endemic, relict genus of great 

 scientific interest. Data submitted by Dr. Robert R. Miller, University of Michigan. 



References : 



Hubbs, C. L. and R. R. Miller. 1948. Two new relict genera of cyprinid 



fishes from Nevada . Occ. Pap. Mus . Zool . , Univ. Mich., No. 507, 30 p . 

 La Rivers, I. 1962. Fish and fisheries of Nevada. Nevada State Fish and Game 



Commission, 782 p. 



28 



