Habitat suitability index models: muskellunge (Esox masquinongy)

The muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) was recognized as a distinct species relatively late, and its nomenclature is varied and confused (Crossman 1986). Currently, only one species of muskellunge is recognized, with a variety of strains (Crossman 1986; Koppelman and Philipp 1986). Until recently, it was thought that there were three subspecies of muskellunge found across its native range. These three subspecies were thought to be separated geographically by major drainage and, to some degree, by color pattern.