Golden Shiner

Golden Shiner

Notemigonus crysoleucas

Size
to 12"
usually much smaller

There are hundreds of species of shiners in North America, and dozens in New Jersey. The Golden Shiner is probably the most attractive of these minnows in our area, although only the male wears these colors, and then only when breeding. Otherwise, they are much drabber. Shiners prefer quiet or slowly flowing waters.

led Shiner

Another common minnow is the Bridled Shiner.


Mole Crab

The Mole Crab or Sand Bug Emerita talpoida lives on ( or rather in ) ocean beaches, burrowing in the surf zone, and at times free swimming. It is totally harmless and grows to 1.5". These odd and somewhat comical little creatures seem to do everything in reverse - they dig backwards, walk backwards, and swim backwards. Fishermen dig them up for bait.

Mole Crab