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Fathead Minnow

Pimephales promelas

Least Concern (LC) Federally Protected

Fathead Minnow
Pimephales promelas

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Leuciscidae
Genus: Pimephales
Species: p.
In Nevada
Fathead minnows are not native to Nevada but have been introduced and are now established in various waters statewide, primarily through bait bucket releases and intentional stocking as forage for sport fish. The Nevada Department of Wildlife recognizes them as present in many reservoirs and ponds where they serve as prey for bass and trout. They are commonly used as bait fish, though anglers should verify current regulations regarding live bait transport and use, as rules vary by water body to prevent unwanted spread of non-native species.