Fin's Fish Guide
The Speckled chub (Macrhybopsis aestivalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The speckled chub is a small cyprinid from the central and southern United States, in the Mississippi basin and adjacent rivers. The species reaches about 12 cm and has a slender, silvery body with fine dark speckles and short barbels with which it probes the bottom. It inhabits sand and gravel runs of small to large rivers. The diet consists mainly of aquatic insect larvae, especially midge larvae. Owing to its small size the species has no direct fishery value, but it is an indicator of clean, flowing river water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Speckled chub?
The Speckled chub has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Short barbels and fine speckles; inhabitant of sandy and gravelly stream stretches.
Where does the Speckled chub live?
The Speckled chub lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central and southern United States (Mississippi basin).
How big does the Speckled chub get?
The Speckled chub grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Speckled chub dangerous to humans?
No, the Speckled chub is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Speckled chub edible?
The Speckled chub is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Macrhybopsis
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Speckled chub?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Speckled chub is one of 12,519 species in the app.