Identification
A dark side stripe is strongest near the tail and becomes less distinct toward the front. Breeding fish show red fins, with dark pigment concentrated near the tips of some leading fin rays. The paired fins have relatively little dark pigment.
Size and Stream Setting
The adult range above describes typical sizes, not a verified species maximum. Streams with slower to moderate current and soft bottom materials provide characteristic habitat. Vegetation and relatively open stream settings are useful details to include in a locality description.
Breeding Season
Alabama observations place spawning across a long warm-season interval, from spring into late summer or early fall. Color can therefore vary with season and reproductive condition. A duller individual should not be excluded solely for lacking vivid red fins.
Check the Stripe Near the Tail
The rear part of the side stripe is a useful place to focus a photograph. Include the fins as well, since breeding color and dark fin tips add identification detail.
All Lakes With Cherryfin Shiner
Browse all lakes and reservoirs with confirmed Cherryfin Shiner records in our database, listed alphabetically.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.