Fin's Fish Guide
The Coosa shiner (Notropis xaenocephalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Coosa shiner is a small minnow (Leuciscidae) from fresh water of the Coosa and Mobile basins in the southeastern United States. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a dark longitudinal stripe and a spot on the snout and tail base. As a schooling fish it lives in clear, flowing streams and rivers and eats small insects, larvae and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Coosa shiner?
The Coosa shiner has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Coosa shiner live?
The Coosa shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America: USA
How big does the Coosa shiner get?
The Coosa shiner grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Coosa shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Coosa 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.
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 Coosa shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Coosa shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.