
Golden Shiner (Notemigonus chrysoleucas) Common name - Golden Shiner Description - A golden hue with reddish fins is typical of this species that has a small soft-rayed dorsal fin and like other shiners has a lateral line (the series of sensory holes along the side of a fish) that dips downward. Range - Widely distributed along the east coast of North America from Canada south and throughout Florida and as far west as the Dakotas. Habitat - Typical of vegetated ponds and lakes, also found in slack waters of rivers. Spawning Habits - Shiners lay their sticky eggs primarily on vegetative substrates. In hatcheries mats are laid out to collect the eggs. Breeders are over one year old and typically 3-8 inches long. Males are significantly smaller than females at the same age. Feeding habits - Shiners consume small insects, tiny mollusks, small fishes and perhaps algae. Age and Growth - They live up to about 5 years and reach a maximum size of nearly one foot. Sporting Qualities - Golden shiners are one of the most popular baits used by anglers seeking trophy bass. However, their small delicate scales dislodge easily and they require careful handling. Eating Qualities - N/A State Record - N/A
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