Fin's Fish Guide
The Redfin shiner (Lythrurus umbratilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Central and eastern US; quiet to flowing pools of upper reaches, creeks and small rivers.
Description
The redfin shiner is a small cyprinid from the central and eastern United States. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, silvery-bluish body; breeding males develop reddish fins and a steel-blue sheen. It inhabits quiet to flowing, often turbid pools of headwaters, creeks and small rivers. As an omnivore it feeds on insects, small invertebrates, algae and detritus. It is an active schooling fish that often lays its eggs at the nests of sunfishes. Owing to its small size the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redfin shiner?
The Redfin shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Spawning males with reddish fins and a steely blue sheen; often deposits eggs at sunfish nests.
Where does the Redfin shiner live?
The Redfin shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central and eastern US; quiet to flowing pools of upper reaches, creeks and small rivers.
How big does the Redfin shiner get?
The Redfin shiner grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Redfin shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Redfin shiner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redfin shiner edible?
The Redfin shiner is not usually eaten.
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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 Redfin shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redfin shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.