Fin's Fish Guide
The Argentine pearlfish (Austrolebias bellottii) is a freshwater fish of the family Rivulidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Argentine pearlfish is a small annual killifish from southern South America, in the lower Parana and Uruguay basins. It grows to about 7 cm; the males are handsomely blue, the females browner. It lives in temporary pools and marshes that dry out completely in the dry season. The fish lays its eggs in the muddy bottom, where they survive the drought and only hatch when the rains refill the pool; incubation lasts about four months. Adults live at most a year. The fish feeds on worms, crustaceans and insects. The IUCN assesses the species as Near Threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Argentine pearlfish?
The Argentine pearlfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Annual killifish; the eggs survive drought in the mud and hatch after rain
Where does the Argentine pearlfish live?
The Argentine pearlfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern South America (La Plata basin)
How big does the Argentine pearlfish get?
The Argentine pearlfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Argentine pearlfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Argentine pearlfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Argentine pearlfish edible?
The Argentine pearlfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Austrolebias
More from the family Rivulidae
Want the complete picture on the Argentine pearlfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Argentine pearlfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.