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brassy minnow
brassy minnow (Hybognathus hankinsoni) [state threatened]
Photo © Konrad P. Schmidt, University of Minnesota
Features and Behaviors
FEATURES
The brassy minnow has a rounded dorsal fin. Its back is green-brown with a brown to green-yellow stripe. The sides are usually brass-yellow, although small individuals may have silver sides instead. The dark stripe on the side is darkest toward the caudal area. Adults range from about two and one-half to three and one-half inches long.
BEHAVIORS
These fish live in pools in clear creeks and small rivers. They swim in schools near the bottom often associated with other minnow species. Their diet is composed of plant and animal debris on the bottom of the water body. Spawning occurs in early spring.
Illinois Range
Taxonomy
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Leuciscidae
Illinois Status: common, native
