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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: Spotfin Shiner

Synonyms and Other Names: silver-finned minnow, satin-finned minnow

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Becker (1983); Page and Burr (1991); Etnier and Starnes (1993); commonly used name is Notropis spilopterus. Maximum size: 12 cm.

Native Range: Atlantic Slope from St. Lawrence drainage, Quebec, to Potomac River drainage, Virginia; Great Lakes (except Lake Superior), Hudson Bay (Red River), and Mississippi River basins from Ontario and New York to southeastern North Dakota and south to Alabama and eastern Oklahoma; isolated populations in Ozarks (Page and Burr 1991).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

Native range data for this species provided in part by NatureServe

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Means of Introduction: Spotfin Shiners have been stocked intentionally as a forage fish in Nebraska (Bouc 1987). It most likely entered Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, from the nearby New drainage, possibly transferred with white bass from Claytor Lake (Jenkins and Burkhead 1994). The method of introduction into other areas has not been reported although introduction via bait bucket releases is a possibility in some areas.

Status: Established in parts of Nebraska (Bouc 1987; Lee et al. 1980 et seq.). Established and abundant in Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia; reported from Sherando Lake, Virginia (Jenkins and Burkhead 1994). Reported, probably established, in Iowa outside its native range (Lee et al. 1980 et seq.).

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: This species has received limited use as a baitfish (Scott and Crossman 1973; Becker 1983; Harlan et al. 1987). This species may have spread via the Erie Canal (Gibbs 1963; Smith 1985).

References: (click for full references)

Hocutte, C.H., R.E. Jenkins, and J.R. Stauffer, Jr. 1986. Zoogeography of the Fishes of the Central Appalachians and Central Atlantic Coastal Plain. In C.H. Hocutt and E.O. Wiley, eds. The Zoogeography of North American Freshwater Fishes. 161-212.

Other Resources:

Author: Nico, L.

Peer Review Date: 4/20/2010

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.