Fin's Fish Guide
The Northern redbelly dace (Chrosomus eos) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Canada and the northern United States; lakes, ponds, peat bogs and streams.
Description
The northern redbelly dace is a small North American cyprinid from Canada and the northern United States. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender body with two dark longitudinal stripes; breeding males develop a bright red belly. It inhabits lakes, ponds, bogs and pools of headwaters and creeks, usually over silt and near vegetation. As an omnivore it feeds on algae, detritus and small invertebrates. As a small schooling fish it is an important prey for larger fishes. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Northern redbelly dace?
The Northern redbelly dace has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Two dark longitudinal stripes; spawning males with a bright red belly.
Where does the Northern redbelly dace live?
The Northern redbelly dace lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Canada and the northern United States; lakes, ponds, peat bogs and streams.
How big does the Northern redbelly dace get?
The Northern redbelly dace grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Northern redbelly dace dangerous to humans?
No, the Northern redbelly dace is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Northern redbelly dace edible?
The Northern redbelly dace is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chrosomus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Northern redbelly dace?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Northern redbelly dace is one of 12,519 species in the app.