Fin's Fish Guide
The Sailfin shiner (Pteronotropis hypselopterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Southeastern USA; sand- and clay-bottomed pools and flowing upper reaches and creeks.
Description
The sailfin shiner is a small, colourful cyprinid from the south-eastern United States. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a slender body with a blue-black lateral stripe, yellow-red fin tints and, in courting males, conspicuously enlarged, sail-like dorsal and anal fins, to which the name refers. It inhabits sand- and clay-bottomed pools and flowing parts of headwaters and creeks. As an omnivore it feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae, algae and detritus. It is a peaceful schooling fish. Owing to its small size the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sailfin shiner?
The Sailfin shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Courting males with strikingly enlarged, sail-shaped dorsal and anal fins and a blue-black longitudinal stripe.
Where does the Sailfin shiner live?
The Sailfin shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern USA; sand- and clay-bottomed pools and flowing upper reaches and creeks.
How big does the Sailfin shiner get?
The Sailfin shiner grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Sailfin shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Sailfin shiner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sailfin shiner edible?
The Sailfin shiner is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pteronotropis
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Sailfin shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sailfin shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.