Fin's Fish Guide
The Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Fundulidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis) is a robust killifish of the family Fundulidae from the Gulf of Mexico coast. The species has a stocky, elongate, olive to silvery body, often with pale spots, and reaches about 18 cm. It prefers grassy bays, canals and nearby fresh water and avoids bare tidal flats; it tolerates strongly varying salinities. The diet consists of small crustaceans and other invertebrates. It is not a seasonal killifish. The species is hardy and is widely used as live bait; in the aquarium it is difficult to maintain.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gulf killifish?
The Gulf killifish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Hardy brackish-water fish that tolerates changing salinity; widely used as live bait.
Where does the Gulf killifish live?
The Gulf killifish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Bays, channels and salt marshes along the Gulf of Mexico.
How big does the Gulf killifish get?
The Gulf killifish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Gulf killifish dangerous to humans?
No, the Gulf killifish 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 Gulf killifish edible?
The Gulf killifish is rarely 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
Want the complete picture on the Gulf killifish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gulf killifish is one of 12,519 species in the app.