Fin's Fish Guide
The Merry widow (Phallichthys amates) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The merry widow is a livebearing toothcarp (Poeciliidae) from Central America. The species is small; the male is smaller and has a conspicuously long anal fin modified into a mating organ (gonopodium). Unlike egg-laying fishes the female gives birth to live young. It inhabits mainly stagnant waters, creeks and river shorelines over soft bottoms. As an omnivore it feeds on algae, detritus and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Merry widow?
The Merry widow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ovoviviparous; male with a conspicuously long gonopodium, from Central America.
Where does the Merry widow live?
The Merry widow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central America; standing waters, creeks and river banks.
How big does the Merry widow get?
The Merry widow grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Merry widow dangerous to humans?
No, the Merry widow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Merry widow edible?
The Merry widow is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Phallichthys
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Merry widow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Merry widow is one of 12,519 species in the app.