Fin's Fish Guide
The Sandbar shiner (Notropis scepticus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The sandbar shiner is a small cyprinid from the Atlantic slope of the southeastern United States. The species reaches about 9 cm and has a slender, silvery body. It occurs in flowing, sand-bottomed pools, often near riffles, in creeks and small to medium rivers. The fish lives in schools and feeds on insects and small invertebrates. The species is an indicator of clear, flowing water; owing to its small size it has no direct fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sandbar shiner?
The Sandbar shiner has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Lives in sandy-bottomed pools near riffles; indicator of clear flowing water.
Where does the Sandbar shiner live?
The Sandbar shiner lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Atlantic slope of the south-east of the United States.
How big does the Sandbar shiner get?
The Sandbar shiner grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Sandbar shiner dangerous to humans?
No, the Sandbar shiner is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sandbar shiner edible?
The Sandbar shiner is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Notropis
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Sandbar shiner?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sandbar shiner is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone