Fin's Fish Guide
The Diamond killifish (Fundulus xenicus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Fundulidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Gulf coast of North America; fresh to hypersaline water, salt marshes and mangroves.
Description
The diamond killifish is a small egg-laying toothcarp of the family Fundulidae from the Gulf coast of North America. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a deep, rhomboid (diamond-shaped) body with a fine, net-like pattern; courting males become brighter with blue-green and orange tints. As a euryhaline species it occurs from fresh water to hypersaline flats, salt marshes and mangrove areas. As a small omnivore it eats algae, detritus and small invertebrates. The species tolerates extreme fluctuations in salinity and temperature. Owing to its small size it has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Diamond killifish?
The Diamond killifish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, diamond-shaped body; euryhaline and tolerates extreme fluctuations in salinity and temperature.
Where does the Diamond killifish live?
The Diamond killifish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Gulf coast of North America; fresh to hypersaline water, salt marshes and mangroves.
How big does the Diamond killifish get?
The Diamond killifish grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Diamond killifish dangerous to humans?
No, the Diamond killifish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Diamond killifish edible?
The Diamond killifish is not usually eaten.
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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 Diamond killifish is one of 12,519 species in the app.