Fin's Fish Guide
The Metallic shiner (Pteronotropis metallicus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The metallic shiner is a small freshwater minnow from the southeastern United States. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a slender body with a shiny, metallic-blue lateral stripe; breeding males develop extra sheen and yellow tints. It schools in slow, weedy water of swamps and streams and feeds on small zooplankton and insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Metallic shiner?
The Metallic shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Metallic blue longitudinal stripe; small schooling swamp fish
Where does the Metallic shiner live?
The Metallic shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern United States
How big does the Metallic shiner get?
The Metallic shiner grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Metallic shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Metallic 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.
Is the Metallic shiner edible?
The Metallic shiner is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Metallic shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Metallic shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pteronotropis
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Metallic shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Metallic shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.