Fin's Fish Guide
The Woundfin (Plagopterus argentissimus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The woundfin is a small, silvery cyprinid from the Colorado basin in the southwestern United States. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a streamlined, scaleless body with sharp spines before the dorsal and pelvic fins, to which the name refers, and barbels. It lives in warm, turbid, fast-flowing desert rivers. Through dams, water extraction and introduced fish its range has shrunk severely; it is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List and is federally endangered in the US.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Woundfin?
The Woundfin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Scaleless body with sharp fin spines and barbels; endangered desert river fish
Where does the Woundfin live?
The Woundfin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Colorado river basin
How big does the Woundfin get?
The Woundfin grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Woundfin dangerous to humans?
No, the Woundfin 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 Woundfin edible?
The Woundfin is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Woundfin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Woundfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.