Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluntnose minnow (Pimephales notatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 11 cm.
The species lives in rivers, streams and lakes of eastern and central North America.
Description
The bluntnose minnow is a small cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 11 cm. It has a blunt, rounded snout, a dark lengthwise stripe and a spot at the tail base; the male guards the eggs under a stone. The species is native to the fresh water of North America. The species lives in rivers, streams and lakes of eastern and central North America. It feeds on algae, detritus, insect larvae and small zooplankton. In spring and summer it spawns in shallow water, where the eggs attach to plants, stones or sand. It is a common species, locally used as a bait fish and an important prey for larger predatory fish and waterbirds.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluntnose minnow?
The Bluntnose minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. It has a blunt, rounded snout, a dark longitudinal stripe and a blotch at the base of the tail; the male guards the eggs under a stone.
Where does the Bluntnose minnow live?
The Bluntnose minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. The species lives in rivers, streams and lakes of eastern and central North America.
How big does the Bluntnose minnow get?
The Bluntnose minnow grows to a maximum of about 11 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Bluntnose minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Bluntnose minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bluntnose minnow edible?
The Bluntnose minnow is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Pimephales
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Bluntnose minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluntnose minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.