How to Identify Fallfish

To identify Fallfish (Semotilus corporalis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface dark olive to brownish, fading to silvery on the sides and white on the belly. Fins are typically dusky or clear. Breeding males develop a pinkish wash on their sides and tubercles on their heads.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, robust body for a minnow, Large scales, Small barbel in the corner of the mouth (often difficult to see without close inspection), Dark spot at the base of the caudal fin (more prominent in juveniles)

Dorsal fin

Single, short-based dorsal fin with 8 rays, located slightly behind the pelvic fins.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal, located beneath the dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size

   The largest native minnow in its range, often reaching 10-16 inches (25-40 cm) and occasionally up to 20 inches (50 cm).

2. 2

   Body Shape and Coloration

   Robust, torpedo-shaped body with a silvery sheen, darker dorsally and lighter ventrally. Look for the large scales.

3. 3

   Barbel

   A small, often inconspicuous barbel is present in the corner of the mouth. This is a key distinguishing feature from many other minnows.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin Position

   The dorsal fin originates slightly behind the pelvic fins, a characteristic shared with some other minnows but useful in combination with other features.

5. 5

   Breeding Tubercles

   During spawning, males develop prominent nuptial tubercles on their heads, which are small, horn-like projections.

Explore Fallfish