SPECIES ID / Freshwater Fish of the Fraser Valley

Minnow Family (Cyprinidae)

  • The largest known family of freshwater fish; > 2,400 species
  • Posses a connection between swim bladder and vertebrae that functions to detect sound.
  • Release an ‘alarm substance’ into the water when skin is torn that other minnows, especially of the same species, react to by escaping the area.

Identification Tips:

  • No spines or adipose fin
  • No teeth on jaw

––––––
Primary Information Source:
McPhail, J.D. 2007. The Freshwater Fishes of British Columbia. University of Alberta Press. Edmonton, Alberta.