Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver shiner (Notropis photogenis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Flowing waters of eastern North America (Ohio and St. Lawrence basins).
Description
The silver shiner is a slender North American cyprinid from flowing rivers and streams in the eastern United States and Canada. The species has a streamlined, silvery body reaching about 14 cm, with large eyes and a terminal mouth. It inhabits fast, clear riffles and runs with a rocky bottom and feeds mainly on insects, both aquatic larvae and terrestrial insects taken from the surface. The fish lives in schools in the open water column. Because of its small size it has no fishery value, but it is an indicator of clean, flowing water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver shiner?
The Silver shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Indicator species for clean, fast-flowing water; large eyes.
Where does the Silver shiner live?
The Silver shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Flowing waters of eastern North America (Ohio and St. Lawrence basins).
How big does the Silver shiner get?
The Silver shiner grows to a maximum of about 14 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Silver shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver 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 Silver shiner edible?
The Silver 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 Silver shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.