There is a distinct caudal spot. The ventral portion is chrome yellow or brilliant red. To compound the confusion, Finescale, Northern Redbelly, and Pearl Dace are usually found together in cool bog lakes and streams. It has a dark back, silvery sides, and white belly. In Ontario these fish are usually densely spotted with dark patches.
Small fish have a distinct lateral band terminating In a deep caudal spot.
On older fish, the lateral band is present only in the caudal regions. They are found in ponds as well as cool headwaters of streams and small lakes. This fish is basically silvery with some bronze. They have an olive back and white belly. Spawning males' backs turn blue-black and the outer portions of fins become bright red.