For most of the year, the Highland Shiner (Notropis micropteryx) is a modest silvery minnow, blending seamlessly into its surroundings and making it hard to distinguish from other minnows in the stream. However, during the spawning season, this unassuming fish transforms. Breeding males take on a striking red flush that spreads across their bodies, snouts, lips, chins, and the tops of their heads. These vibrant colors mark the beginning of their role as defenders and courters, seeking out nesting sites on the streambed and vying for the attention of females. Often one of the many nest associate species, the Highland Shiner contributes to the intricate dynamics of aquatic ecosystems.

At CFI, we were thrilled to partner with The University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the University of Texas at San Antonio on a joint grant to study how this species could teach us about the impact of climate change on small stream fishes. As a part of this project, CFI’s responsibility was to produce fish to support studies comparing the adaptability of highland and lowland species to altered temperature regimes.

The Highland Shiner serves as a warm water, lower elevation, mainstream river species counterpart to the Saffron Shiner that is found in cooler water, at higher elevations in the headwater streams. Researching these contrasting yet similar species will help explain how fish species adapt to the effects of climate change. Being a lower elevation species, the Highland Shiner is thought to be more resilient to temperature fluctuations compared to its higher elevation relatives. It’s a privilege to contribute to research with the potential to shape conservation strategies in the face of a changing climate.

Working with the Highland Shiner has provided us with invaluable insights into its life history. This highly fecund (reproductive) species can spawn hundreds of eggs in a single day. Remarkably, from just 22 adults, we successfully raised over 1,500 babies after only two spawning events!

Through our work with the Highland Shiner, we’re uncovering the secrets of a resilient species and helping to build a foundation for understanding how aquatic ecosystems might adapt to future challenges. These efforts bring hope for preserving biodiversity and ensuring the health of our freshwater habitats for generations to come.