Hybognathus placitus, also known as the plains minnow, is a fish that inhabits many shallow river channels with the Great Plains states. The etymology behind the genus and species name are Greek for swollen jaw (Hybognathus) and broad surface (placitus). Fun fact, UCM 342 was collected by Junius Henderson, the first curator of the CU Museum, along with early ichthyologist Max Ellis. The plains minnow typically lives in schools of fish at the bottom of the shallow river channels. Some characteristics of the plains minnow include 14-22 scales that span their stomach and a triangular skull.
Scientists can tell the difference between males and female plains minnow individuals. Males have larger dorsal fin rays than females, which is one immediate indicate to distinguish between the males and the females. The males also have bigger skulls than their female counterparts. Females have longer trunks and an overall deeper body which is most likely due to reproduction. Furthermore, the maximum size of the plains minnow is 130 mm (5.12 inches) in length. For the lifespan of the plains minnow, they sexually mature during their first year of life and die after reproducing in their second year during typically summer months. The method of reproduction for the plains minnow consists of scattering their eggs downstream in the channel. The plains minnow feed on small microorganisms such as diatoms and different microflora among the channel’s seafloors.
Common name: Plains minnow
Scientific name: Hybognathus placitus
Catalog number: UCM 342
Label data: Colorado, Sedgwick County South Platte, Julesburg
Collectors: Junius Henderson and Max Mapes Ellis
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