What is the scientific name of the muskellunge, the largest member of the pike family?

The scientific name of the muskellunge, the largest member of the pike family, is Esox masquinongy.

The muskellunge is a large freshwater predator native to North America. It belongs to the genus Esox, which also includes the northern pike, chain pickerel and redfin pickerel. Its species name, masquinongy, comes from an Indigenous name associated with the fish.

Muskellunge are found mainly in lakes, rivers and reservoirs across parts of Canada and the north-central and northeastern United States. They have elongated bodies, pointed heads and distinctive vertical markings that vary by population. They ambush fish, small mammals, water birds and other prey.

The muskellunge is often confused with the northern pike, Esox lucius, because both are long-bodied members of the same genus. The muskellunge is generally larger and typically has a more forked tail, while northern pike usually show pale bean-shaped spots on a darker body.