Notemigonus crysoleucas, commonly known as the golden shiner, is a small, laterally compressed fish with a shiny, golden body. It inhabits freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers across North America. Known for its schooling behavior, the golden shiner plays a crucial role in the food web, serving as prey for larger fish species.

Notemigonus crysoleucas, commonly known as the golden shiner, is native to North America. It is primarily found in the eastern and central parts of the United States and Canada. Its geographical distribution extends from the Atlantic coast westward to the Great Plains, and from the Great Lakes region southward to the Gulf of Mexico.

Golden shiners typically inhabit freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, and rivers. They prefer areas with abundant aquatic vegetation, which provides cover and breeding grounds. The species thrives in water bodies with a range of temperatures, but they are most commonly found in warm, shallow waters. They are adaptable to different water conditions, but prefer clear, calm waters with moderate to high levels of dissolved oxygen.

The golden shiner occupies a niche as a forage fish, serving as prey for larger predatory fish, birds, and other wildlife. They play a crucial role in the aquatic food web by feeding on plankton, algae, and small invertebrates. Their presence helps control algae levels and contributes to the overall health and balance of aquatic ecosystems. Golden shiners are also known for their schooling behavior, which offers protection against predators.