Fin's Fish Guide
The Bullhead minnow (Pimephales vigilax) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Central and southern North America, in quiet pools and channels over sand, silt or gravel of small to large rivers.
Description
The bullhead minnow is a small North American minnow (family Leuciscidae). The species reaches about 9 cm and has a stocky, silvery-grey body with a blunt head. It inhabits quiet pools and runs over sand, silt or gravel of small to large rivers and is most common in medium-sized rivers. Its diet consists of insect larvae, small invertebrates, algae and detritus. In the breeding season males turn dark, develop breeding tubercles and guard the eggs laid under stones or objects. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bullhead minnow?
The Bullhead minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Males darken during spawning and develop breeding tubercles; they guard the eggs under objects.
Where does the Bullhead minnow live?
The Bullhead minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central and southern North America, in quiet pools and channels over sand, silt or gravel of small to large rivers.
How big does the Bullhead minnow get?
The Bullhead minnow grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Bullhead minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Bullhead minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bullhead minnow edible?
The Bullhead minnow is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Pimephales
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Bullhead minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bullhead minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.