Fathead Minnow

The fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) is native to freshwater ecosystems in central North America from the Great Plains to western Pennsylvania. Outside of their native range, fathead minnow populations have been observed in all continental states, Alaska, and Puerto Rico. This species is characterized by a small, chunky body with a short, broad head (hence, the name “fathead”) and dark to light coloration depending on habitat. Spawning males turn black with two light vertical stripes on their sides and have tubercles (or nodules) on their snout, chin, and pectoral fins. Fathead minnows are omnivorous and can tolerate a wide variety of water quality conditions that other fishes may find inhospitable – a trait that contributes to their wide establishment. These fish have been introduced widely outside of their range, both intentionally as forage fish for predatory species and unintentionally as baitfish.

Fun Fact: Males have a spongy pad that reaches from the back of their heads to the dorsal fin that they use to clean their nests and secrete mucus on developing eggs!