Image source: Charlie Mellor | inaturalist.org
The satinfin shiner (Cyprinella analostana) is a species of fish in the family Cyprinidae, the carps and minnows. It is native to the eastern United States, where its distribution extends from from Hudson River drainage in New York to Peedee River drainage in South Carolina. Isolated records in Lake Ontario drainage in New York. It is a common fish and not considered threatened. This fish is about 7 to 9 centimeters long, with a maximum length of 11 centimeters. It is a freshwater fish that inhabits rivers and creeks, sometimes entering pools and riffles, and found from headwaters to areas near tidal influence. It eats insects, especially flies and mayflies. Spawning occurs in spring and summer, with individuals spawning several times over a season. The eggs are laid in cracks and crevices, under rocks, and on tree roots and wood debris. The male guards them until the young emerge in about one to two weeks, depending on temperature. The lifespan of the species is 3 to 4 years. This species produces vocalizations that aid in species and sex recognition.
