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Goldeyes are a freshwater fish found in Canada and the northern United States. They are one of only two remaining species in the family Hiodontidae the other species being the mooneye or hiodon tergisus. Primarily Goldeye fish are processed and sold to consumers under the name Winnipeg Goldeye as they are processed almost exclusively in Winnipeg.

Morphology
Goldeyes are recognizable by their silver compressed body form and their large gold eyes. Their body appears to be a blue-green silver from above and a more white silver from below. They have two abdominal and pelvic fins as well as a dorsal on their back and an anal fin no their underside. The dorsal fin is positioned opposite or behind the origin of the anal fin. Goldeyes also have a fleshy keel that extends from the pectoral fins to the base of the anal fin. Their mouth is large and in the terminal position with a blunt round snout. The Goldeye fish has cycloid scales that lack spines. They also have a sensory system known as the lateral line system. Adults are ususally about 15-17 inches but can reach 20 inches. Goldeyes typically weigh only 1-2 pounds.

Reproduction
The age of first reproduction for Goldeyes is 7-10 years for females and 6-9 years for males. They spawn in late May or early June. The eggs that they lay are about 4mm in size and they are semi-buoyant. This is a rare trait in fresh water fish, but is more common in marine fish. The eggs are suspended in the water and they drift downstream or to quiet waters. The majority of growth that occurs between June and September.

Diet
The diet of Goldeyes consists of aquatic insects and small fish.

Range
Goldeyes are found throughout much of Canada and the United States. Their range has been described to be from St. James Bay in northern Canada down to Louisiana. they have been found as far east as Pennsylvania and as far west as the Mackenzie River drainage in northern Canada. They are also found in the Mississippi and Arctic River basin.