How to Identify Golden Shiner

To identify Golden Shiner (Notemigonus crysoleucas), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Dorsal surface olive-green to dark green, sides silvery to golden-yellow, especially in larger individuals. Ventral surface silvery-white. A faint lateral stripe may be present, particularly in juveniles.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Deep, laterally compressed body, Small, upturned mouth, Fleshy, scaleless keel on the belly between the pelvic fins and the anus, Decurved lateral line, Large, cycloid scales

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 8-9 rays, originating behind the pelvic fin origin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, paired pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal. All fins are typically clear to yellowish.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a deep, laterally compressed body, almost disc-like in larger specimens.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Observe the silvery-gold to brassy-gold sheen on the sides, especially prominent in adults. Dorsal side is darker, olive to greenish.

3. 3

   Belly Keel

   Feel or observe the distinct, scaleless fleshy keel on the belly between the pelvic fins and the anus. This is a key diagnostic feature.

4. 4

   Mouth Position

   Note the small, upturned mouth, indicating a surface or mid-water feeder.

5. 5

   Lateral Line

   The lateral line is noticeably decurved (dips downwards) over the pectoral fin.

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