Comprehensive DescriptionRead full entry BiologyInhabits open
waters of lakes and medium to large rivers. Forms large
aggregations in backwaters and other still waters during winter.
Adults occur in shoals near the surface. Larvae live in littoral
zone of rivers and lakes while juveniles leave shores and occupy
a pelagic habitat, feeding on plankton, drifting insects or
invertebrates fallen on the water surface (Ref. 59043). Feeds
mainly on plankton, including crustaceans (Ref. 30578) and
insects (Ref. 9696). Spawns in shallow riffles or along stony
shores of lakes, occasionally above submerged vegetation (Ref.
59043). Excellent as bait for carnivorous fishes. May be
captured using the smallest hook and a fly as bait. Its flesh is
tasty (Ref. 30578). Of little interest to commercial or sport
fisheries in its native range because of its small size (Ref.
1739). Scales were previously utilized in making Essence
d"Orient, a coating for artificial pearls (Ref. 59043).