Fin's Fish Guide
The Rosyside dace (Clinostomus funduloides) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Fresh water of eastern North America, in clear, cool, flowing streams with gravel bottoms.
Description
The rosyside dace is a slender cyprinid of the family Leuciscidae reaching about 12 cm. The silvery body has a fairly large, oblique mouth; in the breeding season the male's flank turns vivid red, with red fin bases, from which the species takes its name. The species is native to the fresh water of eastern North America and lives in schools in clear, cool, flowing streams with gravel bottoms. Just below the surface and in the water column it hunts drifting and suspended insects and small invertebrates. In spring it spawns on gravel bars, often over the nest pits of other cyprinids. It is a sensitive indicator of clean, cool stream water and an important prey fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rosyside dace?
The Rosyside dace has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender shiner with a large mouth; the spawning-ready male develops a bright red flank and red fin bases.
Where does the Rosyside dace live?
The Rosyside dace lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of eastern North America, in clear, cool, flowing streams with gravel bottoms.
How big does the Rosyside dace get?
The Rosyside dace grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Rosyside dace dangerous to humans?
No, the Rosyside dace is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rosyside dace edible?
The Rosyside dace is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Clinostomus
More from the family Cyprinidae
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