Fin's Fish Guide
The Jamaican gambusia (Gambusia melapleura) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The Jamaican gambusia is a mosquitofish (Poeciliidae) from shallow, often still fresh and brackish water of the fresh waters of Jamaica. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a stocky, silver-grey body with a superior mouth. The male fertilises the female internally with an anal fin modified into a gonopodium, after which live young are born. As a surface fish it eagerly eats mosquito larvae, small invertebrates and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Jamaican gambusia?
The Jamaican gambusia has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Jamaican gambusia live?
The Jamaican gambusia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. North America: Jamaica
How big does the Jamaican gambusia get?
The Jamaican gambusia grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Jamaican gambusia dangerous to humans?
No, the Jamaican 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.
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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 Jamaican gambusia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Jamaican gambusia is one of 12,519 species in the app.