Fin's Fish Guide
The Speckled dace (Rhinichthys osculus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Western North America, in rocky riffles, runs and pools of headwaters, streams and small to medium-sized rivers; rarely in lakes.
Description
The speckled dace is a small, widespread minnow (family Leuciscidae) of western North America. The species reaches about 11 cm and has a streamlined, brown-silvery body with a speckled pattern and a short barbel. It inhabits rocky riffles, runs and pools of headwaters, creeks and small to medium rivers, and rarely occurs in lakes. Its diet consists of aquatic insect larvae, small invertebrates and algae. The species is highly variable across its large range. It is harmless to humans and of no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Speckled dace?
The Speckled dace has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small, speckled cyprinid of fast-flowing, rocky waters; very widespread and variable.
Where does the Speckled dace live?
The Speckled dace lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western North America, in rocky riffles, runs and pools of headwaters, streams and small to medium-sized rivers; rarely in lakes.
How big does the Speckled dace get?
The Speckled dace grows to a maximum of about 11 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Speckled dace dangerous to humans?
No, the Speckled dace is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Speckled dace edible?
The Speckled dace 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 Rhinichthys
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Speckled dace?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Speckled dace is one of 12,519 species in the app.