Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackchin shiner (Notropis heterodon) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The blackchin shiner is a small freshwater minnow from the northern and eastern United States and Canada. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a dark lateral stripe that zigzags along the scale edges, and a dark chin that gives it its name. It lives in clear, weedy water of lakes and slow rivers and feeds on small plankton and invertebrates. The species is sensitive to turbidity. The IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackchin shiner?
The Blackchin shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Dark zigzag lateral stripe and a black chin; indicator of clear water
Where does the Blackchin shiner live?
The Blackchin shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America
How big does the Blackchin shiner get?
The Blackchin shiner grows to a maximum of about 7 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Blackchin shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackchin shiner is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blackchin shiner edible?
The Blackchin shiner is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Notropis
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackchin shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackchin shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.