Fin's Fish Guide
The Sand shiner (Notropis stramineus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The sand shiner (Notropis stramineus) is a small North American cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae. The species has a slender, silvery body, often with a fine dark dorsal stripe, and reaches about 8 cm. It inhabits sand and gravel runs, runs and pools of creeks and small to large rivers, and also occurs along sandy margins of lakes. It prefers clear, flowing water and lives in schools. As a small omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, insects and algae. Owing to its abundance the species is an important prey for larger fishes and is sometimes used as a bait fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sand shiner?
The Sand shiner has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender silver-coloured small cyprinid of sandy and gravel bottoms in clear water.
Where does the Sand shiner live?
The Sand shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Streams, rivers and lakes of central North America.
How big does the Sand shiner get?
The Sand shiner grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Sand shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Sand 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 Sand shiner edible?
The Sand 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 Sand shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sand shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.