Fin's Fish Guide
The River shiner (Notropis blennius) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The river shiner is a small cyprinid from central North America, widely distributed in the Mississippi and Great Lakes systems. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a slender, silvery body. It forms schools in the flowing parts of large rivers and feeds on insects, small crustaceans and plant matter. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the River shiner?
The River shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender silvery small schooling fish of large rivers
Where does the River shiner live?
The River shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central North America
How big does the River shiner get?
The River shiner grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the River shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the River shiner is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the River shiner edible?
The River 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 Notropis
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the River shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the River shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.