The tiny size of burbot eggs belies their ability to produce large predator fish. The paper clip is standard size. The petri dish contains 850 eggs.
The photo was taken at the Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery where research continues on how to raise burbot, a fish that is thought to be extinct, or nearly extinct, in much of its historic range in Europe and the United States. Burbot are found in the Missouri River system. They are cold water spawners, usually in January or early February. Burbot are also known as ling and eelpout.
Although many fishermen shun burbot, they are considered a fresh water cod and offer excellent eating.
Article Photos
Kim Fundingsland/MDN