Many minnows reproduce in groups. Several species of minnows spawn in the same location at the same time, resulting in hybrid minnows. Certain species build nests, while others utilize existing nests of coexisting species. These tubercles may be numerous and feel like sandpaper or they may be few in number and quite large. They are used in nest construction and in maintaining body contact with spawning females.
Minnows are important food items for other fish species in most of the state's waters.
They are essential in maintaining healthy aquatic systems. While several species of minnows are caught by anglers and several more are used as bait fish, the vast majority of minnows never even receive a passing glance from most humans. In New York State, there are 48 known species of minnows. They make up the largest family of fish found in the state. Below, we discuss a few of the more common and colorful species of New York's minnows.