I have a question regarding GAMs.

Do they lose their anal spot in the winter?

I've had GAMs in my pond almost since day one, and like others, I've seen a decline in their numbers during the colder months (to the point of not seeing any at all), only to have them reappear in the spring/summer.

The reason I ask is, even tho I can't identify them as GAMs, I still have a lot of "minnows" ranging from 1/4"-3", but none of them exhibit the black spot you normally see near the vent, typical of a GAM, and how I identify them.

Is that spot something that only apprears during the breeding season?

.10 surface acre pond, 10.5 foot deep. SW LA. The epitome of a mutt pond. BG, LMB, GSF, RES, BH, Warmouth, Longear Sunfish, Gambusia,Mud Minnows, Crappie, and now shiners!!...I subscribe!!