What is cui-ui?

Cui-ui, also known as Lahontan cutthroat trout, is a species of freshwater fish that is endemic to the Pyramid Lake and the Truckee River in the United States. They are one of the largest inland cutthroat trout species, growing up to 50 cm in length and weighing up to 3 kg. Cui-ui is an important cultural and ecological resource for the native Paiute people who have relied on them for food and ceremonial purposes for centuries. However, their populations have been in decline due to habitat loss, overfishing, and the construction of dams. They are listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act since 1970. Conservation efforts have been made to restore their populations through hatchery propagation and habitat restoration projects.