Fin's Fish Guide
The Mosquito fish (Gambusia nicaraguensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Central America; mouths of slow-flowing streams, brackish or fresh water.
Description
The Nicaragua mosquitofish is a small livebearer (Poeciliidae) from Central America. The species is small and has an inconspicuous, greyish body; males are smaller than females and have a gonopodium for internal fertilisation. It has been collected at the mouths of slow-moving streams, in brackish or fresh water within a few metres of the sea. As an omnivore it feeds on mosquito larvae, small zooplankton and organic material. The female bears live young. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mosquito fish?
The Mosquito fish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ovoviviparous small coastal fish; the male with a gonopodium, the female gives birth to live young.
Where does the Mosquito fish live?
The Mosquito fish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America; mouths of slow-flowing streams, brackish or fresh water.
How big does the Mosquito fish get?
The Mosquito fish grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Mosquito fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Mosquito fish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mosquito fish edible?
The Mosquito fish is not usually eaten.
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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 Mosquito fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mosquito fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.