First thing to notice is the comparative size of the mouth. Almost twice as large for the creek chub. Next look at the structure, shape, size and pattern and often color or brightness of the scales. Usually noticeably different for shiners compared to C.chub. I use scale density (relative size and number along lateral line) and size of mouth as first to notice factors. Some shiner species have distinct markings on the lateral line scales making them quite apparent, not true for C.Chubs where lateral line is hard to distinguish. The body shape in terms of cross section is more roundish for the c.chub vs more laterally compressed for the shiners. When you learn to look all three types of features for each separating the two is not too difficult. It takes some practice comparing the two and looking for the main separating features, then it becomes easier. Technically the c.chub will have a tiny barbel in the back end or lower corner of the jaw, that is much easier to see in the larger individuals 6"-9".
Last edited by Bill Cody; 09/18/13 07:52 PM.
