Fin's Fish Guide
The Metallic livebearer (Girardinus metallicus) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The metallic livebearer is a small livebearing toothcarp of the family Poeciliidae from Cuba. The species grows to about 5 to 9 cm; females are larger than males, which have a conspicuously black-coloured gonopodium. It inhabits ponds, lakes and slow-flowing streams and prefers clear, stagnant to very sluggish water. As an omnivore it feeds on algae, small zooplankton, insect larvae and detritus. Like other livebearers the female gives birth to live young after internal fertilisation. The metallic livebearer is a popular aquarium fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Metallic livebearer?
The Metallic livebearer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ovoviviparous small toothcarp from Cuba; males with a conspicuous black gonopodium.
Where does the Metallic livebearer live?
The Metallic livebearer lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Cuba; ponds, lakes and slow-flowing streams with clear, still water.
How big does the Metallic livebearer get?
The Metallic livebearer grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Metallic livebearer dangerous to humans?
No, the Metallic livebearer is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Metallic livebearer edible?
The Metallic livebearer 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 Girardinus
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Metallic livebearer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Metallic livebearer is one of 12,519 species in the app.