Fin's Fish Guide
The Mountain shiner (Lythrurus lirus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The mountain shiner is a small North American cyprinid from the south-eastern United States. The species grows to only about 8 cm and has a slender, silvery body with fine dark markings. It inhabits sandy and rocky pools and runs of clear creeks and small rivers. As a small schooling fish it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae and plant matter from the water surface and column. Owing to its small size it is prey for larger fishes and has no fishery value. The mountain shiner is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mountain shiner?
The Mountain shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender little schooling fish of clear streams with a sandy and rocky bottom.
Where does the Mountain shiner live?
The Mountain shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern USA; clear streams and small rivers.
How big does the Mountain shiner get?
The Mountain shiner grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Mountain shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Mountain shiner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mountain shiner edible?
The Mountain 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 Lythrurus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Mountain shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mountain shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.