Fin's Fish Guide
The Tricolor shiner (Cyprinella trichroistia) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The tricolor shiner is a small freshwater minnow from the southeastern United States, mainly in the Mobile basin. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a silver-blue body; in breeding dress males develop pink to orange tints on the head and yellow fins with white tips, hence 'tricolor'. It schools in clear, flowing water of rivers and streams and feeds on insects and small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tricolor shiner?
The Tricolor shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Spawning male with a pink head and yellow-white fins; small schooling clear-water fish
Where does the Tricolor shiner live?
The Tricolor shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern United States
How big does the Tricolor shiner get?
The Tricolor shiner grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Tricolor shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Tricolor 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 Tricolor shiner edible?
The Tricolor shiner is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Tricolor shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tricolor shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Tricolor shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tricolor shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.