Latin name

Rhinichthys atratulus

Other names

Eastern blacknose dace, brook minnow, potbelly, redfin dace, chub.

Identification

The blacknose dace has a long, slender body with a slightly protruding snout. The whiskers, characteristic of most minnows, are on either side of the mouth. The colouration is silver with a dark olive-grey to white underparts. A dark lateral line runs down each side of the head. It can be distinguished from the cataract dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) by its shorter snout.

Distribution

The blacknose dace's range extends from North Dakota to the St Lawrence River drainage and south to Nebraska and North Carolina.

Habitat

These fish are usually found in fast, clear streams, rocky channels and backwaters of small rivers. They can survive in stagnant summer waters and tolerate crowded conditions.

Size

Blacknose dace usually live for 2 to 3 years and have an average size of 2 to 3 inches.

Life history and Behavior

Blacknose dace spawn in spring, starting in late May or early June. They do not build nests. The fertilised eggs are scattered on the gravel bottom. The male guards the spawning area. The female lays about 750 eggs and there is little parental care.

Food and feeding habits

Blacknose dace feed on insect larvae, small crustaceans, small worms and plant material.

Reproduction

No information