How to Identify Sand Shiner

To identify Sand Shiner (Notropis stramineus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Overall translucent, straw-colored to silvery-white. A faint, dusky lateral stripe extends from the operculum to the caudal fin base, often more pronounced posteriorly. Dorsal surface is typically olive-brown to yellowish, fading to silvery-white on the belly. Scales on the back and sides often have dark pigment at their bases, creating a cross-hatched appearance.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Slender, somewhat compressed body, Large, silvery eyes, Small, subterminal mouth, Faint, dusky lateral stripe, Typically 8 anal fin rays, Lateral line usually complete, with 33-38 scales

Dorsal fin

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

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, typically with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, with 8 rays. Anal fin typically has 8 rays (range 7-9).

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Coloration and Translucency

   Look for a translucent, straw-colored body. The internal organs are often visible through the body wall, especially in smaller individuals.

2. 2

   Lateral Stripe

   Observe the faint, dusky lateral stripe. It is often more prominent towards the tail and may be absent or very faint anteriorly.

3. 3

   Anal Fin Ray Count

   Count the anal fin rays; Sand Shiners typically have 8 rays. This is a key diagnostic feature for distinguishing it from similar species.

4. 4

   Mouth Position

   Note the small, subterminal mouth, indicating its bottom-feeding or mid-water feeding habits.

5. 5

   Substrate Preference

   In the field, Sand Shiners are almost exclusively found over sandy or fine gravel bottoms, which can aid in identification.

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