The méné bec-de-lièvre is a small freshwater fish that is not well known to sport fishermen but plays an important role in the aquatic ecosystem of Quebec. This fish is mainly sought after for observation and scientific study rather than for recreational fishing. It is found in several rivers and lakes in Quebec, primarily in the watersheds of the Saint-François River and the Richelieu River. Although it does not provide a great fight on the line, it attracts attention due to its unique morphology, particularly its hare-lipped mouth which allows it to forage on the bottom for food. Its distribution is generally limited to areas where clear and clean water conditions are present.

The méné bec-de-lièvre is a small fish, typically reaching about 10 to 15 cm in length as an adult. Its body is elongated and slender, covered with small silvery scales that reflect light, giving it a shiny appearance underwater. The coloration of the méné can vary from silvery gray to brownish, depending on the clarity of the water and the substrate of the bottom. Its most distinctive characteristic is its mouth, which features a hare-lipped lower lip, adapted for scraping surfaces on the bottom and extracting food particles. The fins are relatively small and transparent, with a slightly forked caudal fin. The differences between young and adults are minimal, but young may exhibit more pronounced patterns. During the spawning period, males may develop nuptial tubercles on their heads.

The méné bec-de-lièvre is primarily present in southern Quebec, notably in the watersheds of the Saint-François River and the Richelieu River. It is also found in certain sections of the Ottawa River. It prefers clear and clean waters, making it less common in heavily polluted urban areas. Its presence is often an indicator of good water quality. It is less common in the more northern regions of Quebec, where water temperatures are generally less favorable for its development.

This fish prefers rivers and streams with moderate flow and gravel or sandy bottoms, where it can easily find food. It is often observed in shallow waters, between 30 cm and 1.5 m deep, where light penetrates well. The méné bec-de-lièvre generally avoids stagnant waters and deep lakes, preferring areas where the current provides a constant supply of oxygen and food. Habitats rich in aquatic vegetation also offer it shelters from predators.

The spawning of the méné bec-de-lièvre occurs in spring, when the water temperature reaches about 15 °C. Females lay their eggs in rudimentary nests dug into the gravel, and males guard these nests until hatching. The eggs hatch quickly, within a few days, and the fry begin to feed on small invertebrates and organic matter. Growth is relatively rapid, and sexual maturity is reached in 1 to 2 years. The longevity of the méné bec-de-lièvre is generally 3 to 5 years. Spring → Spawning → Summer → Growth → Autumn → Preparation for winter → Winter → Rest

The méné bec-de-lièvre is a social fish, often observed in small schools that move together to find food. It is not particularly territorial, but it can be sensitive to environmental changes, such as noise or disturbances in the water. Weather conditions like wind or bright light can affect its visibility and ability to feed effectively. It prefers calm, sunny days, where light facilitates foraging.

The diet of the méné bec-de-lièvre varies with age. Fry primarily feed on zooplankton and small aquatic invertebrates. As they grow, their diet includes more organic matter and plant debris that they find by foraging the bottom with their specialized mouth. Adults mainly consume aquatic insects, larvae, and small crustaceans. In winter, their feeding activity decreases significantly due to a slowdown in their metabolism.

The best time to observe the méné bec-de-lièvre is in spring and summer when they are more active due to warmer temperatures and increased food availability. During these seasons, they are more visible in clear waters, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In autumn, their activity decreases with the drop in temperatures, and they move to deeper waters to prepare for winter. In winter, their activity is greatly reduced, and they remain mostly inactive, hiding in substrates to protect themselves from the cold.

For the méné bec-de-lièvre, which is not a targeted fish for sport fishing, the choice of lures is not as relevant. However, if you wish to observe them, use natural lures or baits that blend well into their environment. In clear, sunny waters, prefer natural colors like brown or green to avoid alarming them.

To observe or fish for the méné bec-de-lièvre, an ultra-light rod of 1.5 to 2 meters is ideal. A light reel with a 2 to 4 lb line will suffice to feel the small fish. Use small hooks, size 10 to 14, and a fine leader to avoid scaring these shy fish.

If you catch a méné bec-de-lièvre, handle it with care as it is fragile. Keep it in the water as much as possible and use wet hands to avoid damaging its scales. Release it quickly to ensure its survival.

The méné bec-de-lièvre is preyed upon by several aquatic predators such as pike and yellow perch, as well as piscivorous birds such as kingfishers and herons. These predators play a crucial role in controlling the population of ménés.

The méné bec-de-lièvre is not considered a threatened species in Quebec, but its presence is a good indicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems. Conservation efforts focus on protecting its natural habitats and water quality. Releasing any captured fish is encouraged to maintain local populations.