Fin's Fish Guide
The Satinfin shiner (Cyprinella analostana) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Fresh water of eastern North America, in clear streams and rivers with sandy and gravel bottoms.
Description
The satinfin shiner is a shiny silver cyprinid of the family Leuciscidae reaching about 11 cm. The laterally compressed body has a blue-silver sheen; breeding males develop milky-white edges to the fins, which give the species its name. In the breeding season males make ticking and purring sounds to attract females and deter rivals. The species lives in schools in clear streams and rivers with sand and gravel bottoms in eastern North America. As an omnivore it eats insects from the surface and water column, algae and small crustaceans. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species and a much-used bait fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Satinfin shiner?
The Satinfin shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Glossy silvery cyprinid with a bluish sheen; in the spawning season the male develops milky-white fin margins and makes ticking sounds.
Where does the Satinfin shiner live?
The Satinfin shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of eastern North America, in clear streams and rivers with sandy and gravel bottoms.
How big does the Satinfin shiner get?
The Satinfin shiner grows to a maximum of about 11 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Satinfin shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Satinfin shiner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Satinfin shiner edible?
The Satinfin shiner is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Cyprinella
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Satinfin shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Satinfin shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.