Fin's Fish Guide
The Fallfish (Semotilus corporalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 51 cm.
Fresh water of eastern North America, in clear, flowing streams and rivers and along the edges of lakes.
Description
The fallfish is, at up to about 51 cm, the largest native cyprinid (minnow) of North America. The slender, silvery-grey body has large scales and a terminal mouth; breeding males develop tubercles on the head and a pinkish tinge. The species is native to the fresh water of eastern North America and lives in clear, flowing streams and rivers and along the edges of lakes. It eats insects, small crustaceans, small fish and some plant material. Striking is its spawning behaviour: the male piles up hundreds of pebbles with its mouth into a large gravel mound, in which the eggs are laid and protected. For anglers it is a pleasant incidental catch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fallfish?
The Fallfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Largest native North American cyprinid minnow; the breeding male builds large gravel mounds as a nest.
Where does the Fallfish live?
The Fallfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of eastern North America, in clear, flowing streams and rivers and along the edges of lakes.
How big does the Fallfish get?
The Fallfish grows to a maximum of about 51 cm. On average the species is around 17 cm.
Is the Fallfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Fallfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fallfish edible?
The Fallfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Semotilus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Fallfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fallfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.