Fin's Fish Guide
The Black-head minnow (Pimephales promelas) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The fathead minnow is a small, robust cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching at most about 10 cm. The stout, olive-brown body has a short head and a rounded snout. In the breeding season males develop a dark head with rows of white breeding tubercles and a swollen, spongy nape pad. The species is native to North America but has spread worldwide as a baitfish and aquarium fish, including the golden 'rosy red' cultivated form. It is highly tolerant of poor water quality. It eats algae, detritus and small invertebrates. The male defends a spawning site under an object and tends the eggs intensively until they hatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black-head minnow?
The Black-head minnow has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Small, robust cyprinid; ripe males develop a dark head with white breeding nodules (tubercles) and a swollen nuchal pad.
Where does the Black-head minnow live?
The Black-head minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Originally widespread in fresh water of North America.
How big does the Black-head minnow get?
The Black-head minnow grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Black-head minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Black-head minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black-head minnow edible?
The Black-head minnow is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Black-head minnow and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Black-head minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black-head minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pimephales
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Black-head minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black-head minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone