Desert dace

The desert dace (Eremichthys acros) is a rare species of freshwater ray-finned fish belonging to the family Leuciscidae, which includes the daces, chubs and related fishes. This fish is restricted to the warm springs and creeks of Soldier Meadow in western Humboldt County, Nevada, USA. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Eremichthys. The species is also notable for its ability to live in waters as warm as 38 °C (100 °F). It is the sole member of its genus Eremichthys.

The desert dace reaches a maximum size of about 60 mm (2.4 inches). Its coloration is olive green on the back and silvery below, with vaguely mottled sides that flash with yellow reflections. There is some blackish spotting and a deep green streak along and above the lateral line. Dorsal and anal fins are usually eight-rayed. It is recognizable by the horny sheath, similar on both jaws as well as elongated intestine compatible with omnivorous feeding. It can be difficult to tell juvenile dace apart from adults, but adults have brighter colors. In contrast to many other species like the tui chub (Gila bicolor), desert dace can take advantage of thermal habitats and withstand lethal temperatures for most fish.