Fin's Fish Guide
The Owens Pupfish (Cyprinodon radiosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinodontidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The Owens pupfish is a small pupfish endemic to the Owens Valley in California. The species reaches only about 4 cm; males turn bright blue in breeding dress, while females are olive-grey with cross-bars. It lives in desert springs, pools and marshes and tolerates warm, saline water. It is famous for its 1969 rescue, when the entire species was temporarily carried in buckets. Owing to its minute range it is severely threatened. The IUCN assesses it as Critically Endangered (CR).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Owens Pupfish?
The Owens Pupfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Famous rescue story (1969); critically endangered desert pupfish
Where does the Owens Pupfish live?
The Owens Pupfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Owens Valley (endemic)
How big does the Owens Pupfish get?
The Owens Pupfish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Owens Pupfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Owens Pupfish 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 Owens Pupfish edible?
The Owens Pupfish 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 Cyprinodon
More from the family Cyprinodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Owens Pupfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Owens Pupfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.