Emerald Shiner

Notropis atherinoides is one of the most abundant and behaviourally engaging shiners in North America, occurring in enormous schools in the open water of large rivers and lakes from Quebec to Texas. Its common name perfectly describes its appearance — a vivid emerald-green iridescent stripe runs the length of a slim, translucent silver body, flashing brilliantly as the school turns in unison.

In the aquarium, Emerald Shiners are challenging to maintain over the long term as they are sensitive to elevated temperatures and low oxygen, but in an appropriately cool, well-oxygenated large tank they are spectacular. Schools of ten or more create the impression of open river water, constantly active and flashing with reflected light. They feed in mid-water on zooplankton and small insects.

Their sensitivity means they are best suited to experienced aquarists with efficient filtration and temperature control. They are peaceful toward all tankmates and can be combined with other cool-water natives that share their water parameter requirements.

Water: 10–24 °C, pH 7.0–8.5, moderate to hard; very high oxygenation; chilling necessary in summer. Tank: 150 L minimum for a school of 10; open water, minimal décor, strong filtration. Feeding: Live/frozen Daphnia, Artemia, small insects; accepts quality micro-pellets in open water. Breeding: Open-water broadcaster; difficult in standard aquaria — large pools required. Compatibility: Peaceful schooling fish; keep with other cool-water open-water species.