Fin's Fish Guide
The Bayou topminnow (Fundulus nottii) is a freshwater fish of the family Fundulidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
Fundulus nottii is a small topminnow of the family Fundulidae from the southeastern United States. The species has an elongate, yellow-olive body; males bear narrow dark cross-bars and a shining crown, hence the English name 'starhead'. The fish grows to only a few centimetres and has an upturned mouth with which it catches prey at the water surface. It inhabits swamps, oxbows and vegetated, quiet reaches of streams, where it feeds on small invertebrates and insect larvae. Unlike many killifishes this is not a seasonal killifish; the species is popular in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bayou topminnow?
The Bayou topminnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Superior mouth for surface feeding; males with dark vertical bars; not a seasonal killifish.
Where does the Bayou topminnow live?
The Bayou topminnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of the southeastern United States (Gulf Coast drainages).
How big does the Bayou topminnow get?
The Bayou topminnow grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Bayou topminnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Bayou topminnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bayou topminnow edible?
The Bayou topminnow 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 Fundulus
More from the family Fundulidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bayou topminnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.