Roundnose minnow

The roundnose minnow is a species of freshwater ray-finned fish in the family Leuciscidae. This species is endemic to southwestern North America. The genus name Dionda is of Native American origin. The species name episcopa is Latin for "pope", and is named after John Pope who helped lead the party that collected the species holotype.

Description

As the name implies, roundnose minnow have a rounded snout with a small subterminal mouth. They also have 34-45 scales along their lateral line and 8 anal fin rays. Coloration usually includes olive green, white, and shades of yellow with a diagnostic black spot near the caudal fin base.

Distribution and habitat

The roundnose minnow is found in the Colorado, San Antonio, upper Nueces and Rio Grande drainages in Texas and New Mexico in the United States and Mexico. This species is locally abundant and is most common in spring-influenced streams with minimal temperature variation throughout the season.

Diet

Roundnose minnow are generally considered herbivorous.

Reproduction

Spawning occurs over gravel during the summer.

Management

Little management for roundnose minnow occurs in the United States, as most populations appear stable. They have been used as baitfish in New Mexico.