Karen Talbot (1972- ) California Golden Trout (Oncorhynchus aguabonita aguabonita), 2008. Watercolor on natural white, 140 lb. (300 g/m2), acid free, cold press surface paper; 9 x 12 in. (22.9 x 30.5 cm). Framed. Sold July 2009.

Artist's Notes. October 2008. Laguna Beach, California - The California golden trout is a North American salmonid indigenous to the Upper Kern River basin in California. It is most common in headwaters, creeks and lakes at elevations above 2100 meters where the water is clear and cold. There are two recognized subspecies—Oncorhynchus aguabonita gilberti, which can be found in the Main and Little Kern Rivers, and Oncorhynchus aguabonita aguabonita, which inhabits the South Fork of the Kern River. The latter is pictured here and seldom exceeds 26 centimeters (about 10 inches) in its native habitat. The golden trout has been introduced to many river systems and alpine lakes throughout the Western United States, where it frequently interbreeds with rainbow trout. This hybridization poses a threat to the purity of the native golden trout in its original range. In addition, habitat degradation secondary to cattle grazing is a major threat, as is the introduction of more dominant species, like the brown trout and the opportunistic brook trout.

In 2009, Karen is working on a series of fishes, including the California golden trout. Some of these original pieces will be for sale in Karen's booth at the Sawdust Art Festival during the summer of 2009. Commissions are always welcome. If you want more information, please contact karen at karen@karentalbotart.com.