America has many rivers dotted across its many states. All these rivers have their own ecosystems, and many animals inhabit them. Here are some of the longest rivers in the United States, along with what species lurk in their depths.
Missouri River
The longest river in the U.S. is the Missouri River, which is more than 2,500 miles long. It ends in the Rocky Mountains in Montana and travels through a few states before joining the Mississippi River. The animals that can be found spanning the Missouri River are paddlefish, which have notable features like a long, flat snout and the ability to filter-feed on plankton.
Mississippi River
Just behind the Missouri River is the Mississippi, which measures just over 2,300 miles long. The river starts in Lake Itasca in Minnesota before winding southward to the Gulf of Mexico. It has many different ecosystems, with its most notable animal being the American alligator.
Yukon River
The third longest river in America is the Yukon, at almost 2,000 miles long. The river originates in Canada before flowing into Alaska. It is important for both Indigenous cultures and wildlife. Populations of salmon live in the river and migrate upstream to spawn, which provides food for both animals and people.
Rio Grande
Forming part of the U.S. and Mexico border, the Rio Grande stretches for 1,900 miles. Inside the river, the elusive American river otter calls the waters its home. They are known for playful behavior and amazing agility.
St. Lawrence River
The St. Lawrence is around the same length as the Rio Grande River at 1,900 miles. The river connects to the Great Lakes and ends up in the Atlantic Ocean. The beluga whale has been spotted in the colder waters during the year’s summer months.
Arkansas River
The Arkansas River travels through a few states before joining the Mississippi River. It is almost 1,500 miles long and has a large population of catfish, which attracts anglers in search of the perfect catch.
Colorado River
The Colorado River is about 1,450 miles long and flows through several states, including Arizona and California. It is famous for carving out the Grand Canyon. This river supports various species, such as the bighorn sheep, often seen along its rugged banks.
Red River
The Red River measures around 1,290 miles and serves as a boundary between Texas and Oklahoma. It is significant in American history. The river is home to many species, including the striking red drum fish, which local fishermen seek out.
Brazos River
The Brazos River flows through Texas into the Gulf of Mexico, at approximately 1,280 miles. It has been vital for agriculture and industry in Texas. The river supports the Texas horned lizard populations, a unique reptile known for its distinctive appearance.
Columbia River
The Columbia River stretches about 1,240 miles, beginning in British Columbia and flowing into Oregon and Washington. It is crucial for hydroelectric power generation and is also known for its large sturgeon populations, some of which can grow quite large.
Snake River
The Snake River measures 1,040 miles and flows through Wyoming, Idaho, and Washington before joining the Columbia River. This river is famous for its scenic canyons and diverse ecosystems. It’s home to species like the sockeye salmon, known for their impressive migration patterns.
Ohio River
Finally, the Ohio River spans about 981 miles, flowing through several states before merging with the Mississippi River. It has historical importance as a transportation route. The river hosts various wildlife, including the common mink, often seen along its banks hunting for fish.
Pecos River
The lesser-known but important Pecos River stretches about 926 miles, primarily in New Mexico and Texas. It provides habitat for animals such as the endangered Pecos gambusia fish and various bird species that rely on its ecosystem
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