A minnow is a small freshwater fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae. They are commonly found in rivers, lakes, and ponds, often swimming in schools. Minnows are typically characterized by their slender bodies and can vary in color, usually displaying shades of silver, brown, or green. They play an important role in aquatic ecosystems as both prey for larger fish and as consumers of algae and small invertebrates. Minnows are often used as bait in recreational fishing due to their abundance and attractiveness to larger fish species. They are also popular in home aquariums, where they can coexist peacefully with other small fish. Some common types of minnows include the fathead minnow and the rosy red minnow.