How to Identify Eurasian Minnow

To identify Eurasian Minnow (Phoxinus phoxinus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically olive-brown to greenish-brown, fading to silvery-white on the belly. A prominent dark lateral stripe runs from the snout to the caudal fin base, often with a series of darker blotches above it. During breeding season, males develop vibrant red, orange, and yellow coloration on their flanks and fins, and nuptial tubercles on their heads.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Small, embedded scales that are difficult to see without close inspection., A prominent dark lateral stripe., Relatively large eyes., A small, terminal mouth., Maximum length typically 10-14 cm (4-5.5 inches), rarely exceeding 18 cm (7 inches).

Dorsal fin

Single, short dorsal fin located midway along the back, with 3 unbranched and 7-8 branched rays.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin with 19 rays.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively small, with 1 unbranched and 13-15 branched rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, with 1 unbranched and 7-8 branched rays. Anal fin is short, with 3 unbranched and 5-7 branched rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size and Shape

   Small, slender fish, usually under 15 cm. Body is elongated and somewhat cylindrical.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Olive-brown back, silvery belly, and a distinct dark lateral stripe. Breeding males show bright red/orange/yellow flanks.

3. 3

   Scales

   Very small, almost invisible scales, giving the fish a smooth appearance.

4. 4

   Mouth

   Small, terminal mouth, not extending beyond the eye.

5. 5

   Lateral Line

   Lateral line is usually incomplete, not extending the full length of the body.

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