How to Identify Emerald Shiner

To identify Emerald Shiner (Notropis atherinoides), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Silvery overall, with a distinct iridescent emerald-green to bluish stripe running laterally from the operculum to the caudal peduncle. The back is typically olive-green to brownish, and the belly is silvery-white. Fins are generally clear or slightly dusky.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Prominent emerald-green lateral stripe, Large, upward-pointing eyes, Slender, compressed body, Terminal, oblique mouth, Absence of barbels

Dorsal fin

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

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively long and pointed, typically with 15-17 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, with 8 rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lateral Stripe

   Look for the distinctive iridescent emerald-green to bluish stripe along the sides, especially noticeable in good lighting.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Its slender, compressed body and deeply forked tail are characteristic.

3. 3

   Mouth Position

   The terminal, oblique mouth, angled upwards, is a key identifier, indicating its surface-feeding habits.

4. 4

   Eye Size

   Relatively large eyes compared to its head size.

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