Brassy Minnow
Adult brassy minnows are 2 ½–3 inches in length and are variously described in color, perhaps due to geographic differences or changes that occur through preservation of specimens. The majority of descriptions include a brassy color on the sides. The enters of their large eyes are even with the tips of their snouts.
About This Species
Brassy minnows (Hybognathus hankinsoni, Family Cyprinidae) are small native fish of the
Colorado plains. They inhabit pools and channels within small streams.
Protecting the Brassy Minnow
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Range
Brassy minnows range from Canada south to Colorado and Utah and from Montana through northeast North America. In Colorado, they are found in the Lower South Platte River Basin and also in the backwaters of the Colorado River.
Habitat
Brassy minnows occupy stream channels (particularly pools), back waters, and beaver ponds.
Diet
The diet of brassy minnows consists primarily of plankton.
Additional Information
Conservation Status
Brassy minnows occur in low numbers and are listed as a Tier 1 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015).