Original range of the redfin shiner in Iowa varied from widely scattered locations in the central region to a more general and widespread distribution in the northeast part of the state. Recent collections show some restriction in distribution to the northeast and extension of range into the lower portion of the Mississippi River. This species is rare to occasional in all collections. The Iowa representatives are included in the sub-species, eastern redfin shiner (Notropis cyanocephalus).

The redfin shiner is terete and strongly compressed laterally. Color on the back is bluish-silvery with more silver on the sides, and white beneath. Spawning males become bright steel-blue on the back, fins redden, and tubercles develop on the head. There is a prominent black spot at the frontal base of the dorsal fin which extends into the first few rays. A terminal mouth is slightly oblique and no barbel is present. Hooked pharyngeal teeth on slender arches are arranged in a formula of 2, 4-4, 2. The complete lateral line may contain from 40 to 48 scales, and it is strongly de-curved. Dorsal and pelvic fins contain 8 rays, while the pectoral fins contain 12 or 13 rays, and the anal fin has 11 rays.

The redfin shiner has an affinity for streams with aquatic vegetation, which probably limits its distribution because vegetation in Iowa streams is somewhat rare. Spawning occurs from spring through mid-summer, and this species may utilize the nests of sunfish for egg deposition. Adults reach about 3 inches in length, and they are found in large congregations near the surface.

*Mayhew, J. (editor). 1987. Iowa Fish and Fishing. Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Des Moines, Iowa. 323 pp.