Fin's Fish Guide
The Cypress minnow (Hybognathus hayi) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The cypress minnow is a small freshwater minnow from the southeastern and central United States. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, silvery body with a small, inferior mouth and a long gut, adapted to a plant diet. It schools in slow, clear water of rivers, swamps and cypress swamps and feeds on algae, detritus and plant matter. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cypress minnow?
The Cypress minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small inferior mouth and long gut; schooling plant-eating minnow
Where does the Cypress minnow live?
The Cypress minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. United States
How big does the Cypress minnow get?
The Cypress minnow grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Cypress minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Cypress minnow 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 Cypress minnow edible?
The Cypress minnow 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 Hybognathus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Cypress minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cypress minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.