Pat,

I know in the past, someone has posted a link to help id fish species. Try a search to find it. Second thought would be to post a picture of the shiners you are referring to and I'm sure you'd get a quick id. Third, did you ask the bait shop what species they are??

As for putting them into your pond, my first question would be, what other fish are in your pond? If you've got a species that preys on baitfish, you may be wasting your time and money.

Your last question I will hold for others.

Russ