Crescent Shiner,  Luxilus cerasinus

 

Physical Description: 
�	Deep, compressed body
�	Dorsal fin origin above front half of pelvic fin base 
�	Large or medium eye
�	Rounded snout; terminal mouth
�	Several dark crescents on side of body
�	Silver body, top of body olive-gray
�	Dorsal, tail, and anal fins have red band
�	Breeding males are crimson-colored

Similar species: 
�	White shiner (Luxilis albeolus)

Mean body size:
�	Adults are 50-75 mm standard length 

Habitat:
�	Found in schools in streams and rivers 

Distribution in VA:
�	James, Chowan, Roanoke, and New drainages; may have been introduced into most of its range

Food Habits:  
�	Insects, worms, zooplankton, snails, larval fish, and plants

Reproductive Habits: 
�	Mature at age 1 or 2 
�	Spawning occurs late May to early June in water 17.8-25.3�C
�	Spawn over chub nests
�	Fecundity is unknown 

Population Status, Economic, or Ecological Importance: 
�	Used as bait, which probably contributed to its introduction into other drainages

References:       

Jenkins, R.E and N.M. Burkhead. 1993. Freshwater Fishes of Virginia. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.

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