Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluehead chub (Nocomis leptocephalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Fresh water of the south-east of the US, in clear, flowing rivers and streams with gravel and stony bottoms.
Description
The bluehead chub is a robust cyprinid of the family Leuciscidae reaching about 26 cm. The body has large scales and an inferior mouth with a small barbel; the breeding male develops a swollen head covered with tubercles and a bluish glow, from which the species takes its name. The species is native to the southeastern USA and lives in clear, flowing rivers and streams with gravel and stone bottoms. As an omnivore it eats insect larvae, crustaceans, algae and plant matter. Remarkably, in spring the male piles up a large gravel mound nest with its mouth, over which other cyprinids also come to spawn. It is much used as bait.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluehead chub?
The Bluehead chub has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Sturdy cyprinid with large scales and a small barbel; the breeding male develops a swollen head with spawning tubercles and a bluish sheen.
Where does the Bluehead chub live?
The Bluehead chub lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of the south-east of the US, in clear, flowing rivers and streams with gravel and stony bottoms.
How big does the Bluehead chub get?
The Bluehead chub grows to a maximum of about 26 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Bluehead chub dangerous to humans?
No, the Bluehead chub is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bluehead chub edible?
The Bluehead chub is rarely eaten.
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Same genus Nocomis
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Bluehead chub?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluehead chub is one of 12,519 species in the app.