Spotfin Shiner,  Cyprinella spiloptera

 

Physical Description: 
�	Deep body
�	Dorsal fin margin straight
�	Dorsal fin origin above pelvic fin base, posterior part is black
�	Pointed or slightly rounded snout
�	Subterminal mouth
�	Top of body olive, silver sides, white belly
�	Fins are pale yellow in breeding males

Similar species: 
�	Steelcolor shiner (Cyprinella whipplei)

Mean body size:
�	Adults are 40-70 mm standard length 

Habitat:
�	Found in clear streams, reservoirs and lakes over most substrates
�	Sometimes forms schools

Distribution in VA:
�	Native to the Potomac, New, Tennessee, and Big Sandy drainages
�	Also found in Smith Mountain Lake in the Roanoke drainage

Food Habits:  
�	Feed on insects, decapods, microcrustaceans, mites, plants, and detritus

Reproductive Habits: 
�	Mature by age 1 or 2 
�	Spawning occurs mid-June to mid-August 
�	Eggs deposited in crevices around logs and tree roots
�	Fecundity is 7,474 eggs per female

Population Status, Economic, or Ecological Importance: 
�	Good native fish for aquariums

References:       

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

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