Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacktail shiner (Cyprinella venusta) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The blacktail shiner (Cyprinella venusta) is a slender North American cyprinid. The species has a streamlined, silvery body with a conspicuous dark spot at the tail base, to which the name refers, and reaches about 19 cm. It occurs mainly in sandy pools and runs of small to medium rivers, but also in creeks and rocky pools. Adults feed partly on insects that land on the water surface. It is a common schooling fish, used locally as a bait fish and an indicator of healthy, flowing waters.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacktail shiner?
The Blacktail shiner has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Striking dark blotch at the base of the tail; common schooling shiner.
Where does the Blacktail shiner live?
The Blacktail shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Rivers and streams of the southeast and centre of North America.
How big does the Blacktail shiner get?
The Blacktail shiner grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Blacktail shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacktail 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 Blacktail shiner edible?
The Blacktail 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 Cyprinella
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Blacktail shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacktail shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.