Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackstripe livebearer (Poeciliopsis prolifica) is a brackish-water fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The blackstripe livebearer is a small livebearing toothcarp (Poeciliidae) from fresh and brackish water of northwestern Mexico. The species grows to about 3 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a fine dark longitudinal stripe. It lives in schools in slow streams, pools and estuaries and eats algae, small invertebrate life and detritus. The female gives birth to live young and can produce offspring almost continuously. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackstripe livebearer?
The Blackstripe livebearer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Blackstripe livebearer live?
The Blackstripe livebearer lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America: Mexico
How big does the Blackstripe livebearer get?
The Blackstripe livebearer grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Blackstripe livebearer dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackstripe livebearer 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Poeciliopsis
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackstripe livebearer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackstripe livebearer is one of 12,519 species in the app.