16K views · 87 reactions | Brook lamprey (Lampetra planeri) spawning...

The chestnut lamprey (Ichthyomyzon castaneus) is a native, jawless fish found in rivers across Michigan and the central U.S. Often confused with invasive sea lampreys, chestnut lampreys play a positive role in river ecosystems. Key Points: • Larvae live in streambeds for years, filtering water and improving quality. • Adults are temporary parasites, feeding on fish but rarely killing them. • After spawning, they die and decompose, returning nutrients to the stream. • Serve as food for fish, bird