The Headwater livebearer (Poeciliopsis monacha) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Headwater livebearer is a livebearing toothcarp (Poeciliidae) from fresh and brackish water of northwestern Mexico. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, silver-brown body with a superior mouth. The male fertilises the female internally with an anal fin modified into a gonopodium, after which live young are born. As a social fish it swims in schools at the surface of streams and pools and eats mosquito larvae, small invertebrates and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Headwater livebearer?
The Headwater livebearer has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Headwater livebearer live?
The Headwater livebearer lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Headwater livebearer get?
The Headwater livebearer grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Headwater livebearer dangerous to humans?
No, the Headwater livebearer is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Poeciliopsis
More from the family Poeciliidae
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