Fin's Fish Guide
The Greenhead shiner (Notropis chlorocephalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The greenhead shiner is a small minnow (Leuciscidae) from the southeastern United States. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a slender, silvery body; courting males develop a greenish head and reddish fins. It inhabits rocky, flowing pools of clear headwaters, creeks and small rivers. It lives in schools and feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae and algae. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Greenhead shiner?
The Greenhead shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Courting male with a greenish head and red fins; small schooling fish of clear upper reaches.
Where does the Greenhead shiner live?
The Greenhead shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern USA; rocky upper reaches, creeks and small rivers.
How big does the Greenhead shiner get?
The Greenhead shiner grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Greenhead shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Greenhead shiner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Greenhead shiner edible?
The Greenhead shiner 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 Notropis
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Greenhead shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Greenhead shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.