Fin's Fish Guide
The White shiner (Luxilus albeolus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Fresh water of the east of the US (Atlantic drainage), in clear, flowing rivers and streams with gravel bottoms.
Description
The white shiner is a sturdy, silvery cyprinid of the family Leuciscidae reaching about 13 cm. The body has large, shiny scales; breeding males develop a pink to purplish tinge and small tubercles on the head. The species is native to the fresh water of the eastern USA and lives in schools in clear, flowing rivers and streams with gravel bottoms. It eats drifting insects, zooplankton and algae, taken in the water column and at the surface. In spring it spawns on gravel bars, often over the nest pits of other cyprinids. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the White shiner?
The White shiner has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sturdy, silvery small shiner with large scales; in the spawning season the male develops a pink tinge and spawning tubercles on the head.
Where does the White shiner live?
The White shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of the east of the US (Atlantic drainage), in clear, flowing rivers and streams with gravel bottoms.
How big does the White shiner get?
The White shiner grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the White shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the White shiner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the White shiner edible?
The White shiner is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Luxilus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the White shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the White shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.