Fin's Fish Guide
The Lined topminnow (Fundulus lineolatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Fundulidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The lined topminnow is a small surface killifish from the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain of the southeastern United States, ranging from southern Virginia to Florida. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender body with an upturned mouth for surface feeding; males bear dark vertical bars, females horizontal lines. It lives in swamps, vegetated standing waters and quiet pools and backwaters of streams, and feeds on insects and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lined topminnow?
The Lined topminnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Upward-directed mouth; sexes differ in markings (males with narrow vertical bars, females with fine lines)
Where does the Lined topminnow live?
The Lined topminnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern United States
How big does the Lined topminnow get?
The Lined topminnow grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Lined topminnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Lined topminnow 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 Lined topminnow edible?
The Lined topminnow is not usually 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 Lined topminnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lined topminnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.