Fin's Fish Guide
The Hispaniolan gambusia (Gambusia hispaniolae) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The Hispaniolan gambusia is a small livebearer endemic to the Caribbean island of Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic). The species grows to about 3 cm and has a slender, greyish body; the male has an anal fin modified into a mating organ (gonopodium). It lives in calm fresh and brackish pools and margins and feeds on mosquito larvae and small zooplankton. Females give birth to live young. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hispaniolan gambusia?
The Hispaniolan gambusia has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ovoviviparous; male with a gonopodium; eats midge larvae
Where does the Hispaniolan gambusia live?
The Hispaniolan gambusia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Hispaniola
How big does the Hispaniolan gambusia get?
The Hispaniolan gambusia grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Hispaniolan gambusia dangerous to humans?
No, the Hispaniolan gambusia 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 Hispaniolan gambusia edible?
The Hispaniolan gambusia is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Hispaniolan gambusia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hispaniolan gambusia is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gambusia
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Hispaniolan gambusia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hispaniolan gambusia is one of 12,519 species in the app.