43 



This preliminary study of sculpin distribution in the Kootenai National Forest and 

 western portions of the Lolo National Forest revealed a broad geographic and longitudinal 

 distribution for slimy sculpins. Torrent sculpins appear to occupy a range restricted to 

 Kootenai River tributaries in close proximity to the main river. The distribution of 

 shorthead sculpins appears to be concentrated in the St. Regis River watershed with 

 scattered occurrence in other parts of the study area. Additional sampling in combination 

 with electrophoretic analysis may shed light on the distribution of this species in western 

 Montana. Future investigations should concentrate on identifying physical, chemical, and 

 biological factors influencing species distribution. 



