Fin's Fish Guide
The Mississippi silvery minnow (Hybognathus nuchalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Central US; pools and sheltered spots of slow-flowing streams and rivers of the Mississippi basin.
Description
The Mississippi silvery minnow is a North American cyprinid from the Mississippi basin in the central United States. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a stocky, silvery body with a small, inferior mouth and a long gut, adapted to a plant diet. It inhabits pools and backwaters of low-gradient creeks and small to large rivers. It feeds mainly on algae, detritus and organic matter taken from the bottom. As an abundant schooling fish it is an important prey for larger predators. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mississippi silvery minnow?
The Mississippi silvery minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Inferior mouth and a long gut for a plant-based diet; abundant schooling prey fish.
Where does the Mississippi silvery minnow live?
The Mississippi silvery minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central US; pools and sheltered spots of slow-flowing streams and rivers of the Mississippi basin.
How big does the Mississippi silvery minnow get?
The Mississippi silvery minnow grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Mississippi silvery minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Mississippi silvery minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mississippi silvery minnow edible?
The Mississippi silvery minnow is not usually eaten.
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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 Mississippi silvery minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mississippi silvery minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.