Updated status of the Silver Shiner, Notropis photogenis, in Canada

Abstract

The silver shiner (notropis photogenis) is rare in Canada. This species was first found in Canada in 1971; it occurs in the Grand and Thames River watersheds of southwestern Ontario. The Canadian populations may be long established and long separated from American populations. Canadian populations are locally abundant and currently appear to be stable or increasing and reproducing. The silver shiner inhabits medium to large stream with moderate to high gradients and hard bottom; spawning habitat is unknown. Growth appears to be rapid and maximum length reported in Ontario was 10.85 cm. Most silver shiners matured during their second summer. The species is primarily a surface feeder but is not highly specialized in its diet. It is recommended that the silver shiner be classified as a rare species in Canada.