Csik Minnow

Identification

Phoxinus csikii is a small freshwater fish until recently considered a subspecies of the common minnow (Phoxinus phoxinus). The species is visually almost indistinguishable from the common minnow and requires genetic analysis for reliable identification. Like all minnows, it is a small, slender fish reaching about 10 cm.

Ecology

Lives in schools in cool, fast-flowing streams with gravel substrate, similar to the common minnow. Feeds on small invertebrates, algae, and insect larvae.

In the Netherlands

The taxonomic status and distribution of this species in the Low Countries remains unclear. Genetic studies on European minnow populations are ongoing. Records in Dutch streams may have been incorrectly identified as common minnow.