Fin's Fish Guide
The Steelcolor shiner (Cyprinella whipplei) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The steelcolor shiner is a North American cyprinid from the Mississippi basin in the central and eastern United States. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a steel-blue sheen; breeding males develop yellowish fins and head tubercles. It inhabits rocky and sandy runs, less often pools, of creeks and small to medium rivers, often near riffles. As an omnivore it eats insects, small invertebrates and plant matter. It is a schooling fish that often stays just below the surface. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Steelcolor shiner?
The Steelcolor shiner has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Steel-blue sheen; spawning males with yellow fins and tubercles on the head.
Where does the Steelcolor shiner live?
The Steelcolor shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central and eastern US; Mississippi river basin, streams and rivers.
How big does the Steelcolor shiner get?
The Steelcolor shiner grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Steelcolor shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Steelcolor shiner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Steelcolor shiner edible?
The Steelcolor 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 Cyprinella
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Steelcolor shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Steelcolor shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.