Oncorhynchus apache

Recognized as a species by Robins et al. (1991) but treated as a subspecies of O. gilae by Nelson et al. (2004) based on Behnke (1992). Recognized as a species by Page and Burr (2011) and Page et al. (2013).

Hybridizes with O. mykiss. Populations in Ft. Apache Indian Reservation are more genetically pure than those in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest (Rinne and Minckley 1985). Paddy Creek population apparently comprises apache-mykiss hybrids (Loudenslager et al. 1986). Allozyme and mtDNA data may yield different conclusions regarding gene exchange between Apache trout and rainbow trout; exteme care must be exercised when considering elimination of any population that is presumed to be genetically contaminated based on allozyme data alone (Dowling and Childs 1992). Formerly included in the genus Salmo.

Small native range in headwater streams in the White Mountains area of Arizona; limited suitable habitat; hybridizes readily with the rainbow trout; competes with the brook and brown trout; recovery efforts have reduced threats and increased the number of self-sustaining populations; criteria for delisting nearly met; may be conspecific with rainbow trout.

Historically occurred in Arizona in the upper Salt River division of the Gila River basin (Black and White rivers), in the headwaters of Little Colorado River drainage, and in the Blue River (specimen from KP Creek) in the San Francisco River drainage; these streams all are close to each other in the White Mountains (Behnke 1992). Introduced in many streams and lakes in Arizona. Mainly in small headwater streams above 1800 m in the White Mountains (Behnke 1992).

Aided by recovery efforts, there are nearly 30 self-sustaining, nonhybridized stream populations (Springer 1999).

Suffered 95% reduction in range due to hybridization with rainbow trout and competition with brook and brown trouts (Lee et al. 1980). Much more vulnerable to angling exploitation than is the brown trout when the two live together in the same stream (see Behnke 1992). Release of hatchery-produced fishes into waters in which pure wild populations exist probably would be detrimental. Recovery efforts have largely eliminated serious threats by establishing fish barriers, riparian revegetation, livestock exclosures, non-native fish removal, and establishment of new populations (Springer 1999).