Fin's Fish Guide
The Naked minnow (Phoxinellus alepidotus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Endemic to the Dinaric karst of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, in karst fields (polje), springs and rivers that partly dry up or disappear underground in summer.
Description
The naked minnow is a cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae (Leuciscidae) reaching about 14 cm. Characteristic is the almost scaleless, 'naked' skin, from which the species takes its name; the brownish body bears a spotted pattern. The species is endemic to the Dinaric karst of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina and strongly adapted to that unstable environment: it lives in karst fields (polje), springs and rivers that in summer partly dry up or disappear underground, retreating then into springs and cave water. As an omnivore it eats insect larvae, small crustaceans, algae and plant material. Through its limited, vulnerable karst habitat and water abstraction it is assessed as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Naked minnow?
The Naked minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Cyprinid with an almost scaleless (naked) skin and a blotched pattern; adapted to the erratic karst waters of the Dinaric Alps.
Where does the Naked minnow live?
The Naked minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Endemic to the Dinaric karst of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, in karst fields (polje), springs and rivers that partly dry up or disappear underground in summer.
How big does the Naked minnow get?
The Naked minnow grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Naked minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Naked minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Naked minnow edible?
The Naked minnow is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
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More from the family Cyprinidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Naked minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.