Fin's Fish Guide
The Sacramento blackfish (Orthodon microlepidotus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Western North America (California), in lakes, backwaters and calm pools of small to large rivers; often in warm, turbid water.
Description
The Sacramento blackfish is a large minnow (family Leuciscidae) of California. The species grows to about 55 cm and has a streamlined, dark silvery-grey body with very small scales. It inhabits lakes, backwaters and quiet pools of small to large rivers and is usually found in warm, turbid water. As a filter feeder it sieves zooplankton and small invertebrates from the water with fine gill rakers. The species is eaten locally and sold in markets. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sacramento blackfish?
The Sacramento blackfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Filter feeder that sieves plankton from warm, turbid water with fine gill rakers.
Where does the Sacramento blackfish live?
The Sacramento blackfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Western North America (California), in lakes, backwaters and calm pools of small to large rivers; often in warm, turbid water.
How big does the Sacramento blackfish get?
The Sacramento blackfish grows to a maximum of about 55 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Sacramento blackfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Sacramento blackfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sacramento blackfish edible?
Yes, the Sacramento blackfish is commonly eaten.
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More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Sacramento blackfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sacramento blackfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.