Texas Gulf Coast Fishing

Sheepshead Minnow

SHEEPSHEAD MINNOW - Cyprinodon variegatus

Description: Their distinguishing characteristics include silver, tubby bodies, one dorsal (back) and one anal fin (fin closest to tail), and no lateral line. Sheepshead minnows are also referred to as variegated minnows, sheepshead killifish, sheepshead pupfish, broad killifish and chubby. Sheepshead minnows dig into sediment to hide from predators or seek refuge from very warm or cold water. Sometimes, they hide in seagrass or algae. They travel in schools, especially when they have been frightened. Predators include red drum, spotted seatrout, Atlantic croaker, turtles and some wading birds. Sheepshead minnows are an important link in the coastal food chain. Their diet consists of plant material, algae, detritus (decomposing dead/animal matter), mosquitoes and smaller fish.
Where found: The Sheepshead Minnow is found along the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf of Mexico and south along the South American coastline in salt marsh estuary environments.
Size: Sheepshead minnows are generally about 1-2 inches long.
Remarks: Sheepshead minnows can be found in freshwater as well as saltwater. They prefer quiet, shallow waters and have been found in saltwater bays and estuaries, as well as coastal inland areas such as creeks, canals and ditches. Sheepshead Minnows are used in a variety of ways. Some fisherman use them as bait and collectors keep them in saltwater aquariums as pets.