Kingdom Animalia Order Cypriniformes Subfamily Leuciscinae Higher classification Eremichthys | Phylum Chordata Family Cyprinidae Scientific name Eremichthys acros Rank Species | |
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Genus Eremichthys
C. L. Hubbs and R. R. Miller, 1948 Similar Spinedace, Moapa dace, Flame chub, White River spinedace, Chiselmouth | ||
The desert dace (Eremichthys acros) is a rare cyprinid fish known only from the warm springs and creeks of Soldier Meadow in western Humboldt County, Nevada, USA. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Eremichthys. The species is also notable for its ability to live in waters as warm as 38 °C (100 °F). It is the sole member of its genus Eremichthys.
A small species, not known over 7.7 cm in length, it is olive green above and silvery below, with vaguely mottled sides that flash with yellow reflections. There is some blackish spotting and a deep green streak along and above the lateral line. Dorsal and anal fins are usually eight-rayed.
It feeds on small invertebrates, mainly insects, and eats some algae.
The desert dace has been classified as vulnerable since 1996, due to the combination of limited distribution and adaptation to its unusual habitat. Threats include the introduction of goldfish and largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides into a reservoir connected to the springs, as well as the popularity of the warm springs for bathing.