Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded limia (Limia vittata) is a brackish-water fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Cuban limia (Limia vittata) is a livebearing fish of the family Poeciliidae endemic to Cuba. The species has a stocky, silvery body with irregular dark spots or bars and reaches about 8 cm. It inhabits streams, lakes, estuaries, coastal lagoons and mangrove swamps and tolerates brackish water. As an omnivore it feeds on worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter; it often co-occurs with the sailfin molly. Like other livebearers the species reproduces by internal fertilisation and bears live young; the male has a gonopodium. It is hardy and is sometimes kept in the aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded limia?
The Banded limia has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Ovoviviparous with a gonopodium in the male; endemic to Cuba, tolerates brackish water.
Where does the Banded limia live?
The Banded limia lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to fresh and brackish water of Cuba.
How big does the Banded limia get?
The Banded limia grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Banded limia dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded limia 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 Banded limia edible?
The Banded limia is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Limia
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded limia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded limia is one of 12,519 species in the app.