A DWR Biologist observes a Warpaint Shiner during a fish community survey. ©Photo by Tim Lane - DWR
An up-close view of the distinctive markings on a Warpaint Shiner. ©Photo by Tamara Doucette - DWR
Fact File
Scientific Name: Coccotis coccogenis
Classification: Fish, Order Cypriniformes, Family Leuciscidae
Size: Warpaint Shiner can grow to about 4 inches in length in Virginia.
Life Span: Warpaint Shiner can live for up to 4 years in Virginia waters.
Distribution:
The Warpaint Shiner is native to the Holston, Powell, and Upper Clinch watersheds in Virginia. Unauthorized introductions have occurred in the adjacent Upper New watershed.
Identifying Characteristics
A DWR Biologist examines a Warpaint Shiner collected during an electrofishing survey. ©Photo by Maddie Cogar – DWR
- A vertical red-orange opercular bar
- Red-orange upper lip
- Dark submarginal band within the caudal and dorsal fin
- Red-orange pigmentation at the base of the dorsal fin
- Large oblique mouth
Leuciscidae Characteristics and Anatomical Terms
Illustrations by ©Makayla Haggard – DWR
Habitat
Warpaint Shiner habitat from a stream in southwest Virginia. ©Photo by Tamara Doucette – DWR
Warpaint Shiners inhabit coolwater streams with areas of gravel and cobble. They are sensitive to sedimentation and nutrient pollution which degrades their physical habitat and reduces the availability of their primary food items.
Diet
Warpaint Shiners consume aquatic invertebrates as well as other small insects.
Last updated: October 8, 2024
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Species Profile Database serves as a repository of information for Virginia’s fish and wildlife species. The database is managed and curated by the Wildlife Information and Environmental Services (WIES) program. Species profile data, distribution information, and photography is generated by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, State and Federal agencies, Collection Permittees, and other trusted partners. This product is not suitable for legal, engineering, or surveying use. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources does not accept responsibility for any missing data, inaccuracies, or other errors which may exist. In accordance with the terms of service for this product, you agree to this disclaimer.