A male Spotfin Shiner from the Root River in Whalan, MN with breeding colors and tubercles on his head
I want to share with you a native fish that is often subtle in appearance until the males get their spawning colors in the late spring and early summer. This week is the Spotfin Shiner (Cyprinella spiloptera). Etymology: Cyprinella from Latin cyprinus = carp; spiloptera from spilos = spot, and pteron = wing or fin, referring to the black spots at the rear of their dorsal fin.
They occur in a variety of habitats from large rivers to medium streams, even in lakes and reservoirs. They typically avoid small, high-gradient streams with clear water. These fish prefer to hang around logs, woody debris, brush, and large boulders. Crevices within the wood or rocks serve as spawning areas for the Spotfin Shiners. A male will defend their territory(ies) vigorously by chasing off rival males that get too close. Adhesive eggs are laid into the crevices and left unguarded.
Though they are one of the more common species when found, they are quite exciting to watch underwater. While snorkeling or keeping them in aquaria, you can observe them sparring one another in circles, almost like a dance, purely for show to the females.
A huge thank you to everyone that helped me with collecting and photographing recently! I can't tag you for some reason but you know who you are!
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