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Sheepshead Minnow

Sheepshead minnow

Cyprinodon variegatus

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Fun Facts

These minnows will sometimes dig themselves into the sand to escape overly warm or cool water. 

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Sheepshead minnow

Size:

On average, these minnows grow to 1.8 inches (4.6 centimeters) long.

Diet:

Sheepshead minnows eat algae, decomposing animal matter, mosquitos and smaller fish.

Range & Habitat:

Sheepshead minnows prefer quiet, shallow water habitats. They can be found in bays, estuaries, creeks, canals and ditches along the Atlantic coast, Gulf of Mexico and along South America's coastline.

Details:

Sheepshead minnows have yellow bodies with dark olive green tiger striping from their gills to the base of their tail. Their fanned fins are translucent and dark at the base. On their tiny pointed faces, they have silvery eyes and a small mouth. As they age, their coloring becomes more faint.