Fin's Fish Guide
The Minnow (Hemiculter bleekeri) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Bleeker's sharpbelly is a cyprinid from East Asia, occurring in the river systems of China. The species reaches about 25 cm and has an elongate, compressed, silvery body with a sharp, keeled belly edge and an upturned mouth. It lives in schools in the open water layer of rivers and lakes. As an omnivore it feeds on zooplankton, insects, algae and detritus taken near the surface. The species is caught locally as a small food fish and is common in Chinese inland waters.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Minnow?
The Minnow has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sharp, keeled belly edge; common schooling fish of Chinese inland waters.
Where does the Minnow live?
The Minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Asia, in the river systems of China.
How big does the Minnow get?
The Minnow grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Minnow edible?
Yes, the Minnow is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemiculter
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.