Fin's Fish Guide
The Shadow toothcarp (Xenophallus umbratilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The shadow toothcarp is a small livebearer endemic to fresh water of Costa Rica in Central America. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, olive-brown body; males, like other livebearers, have an anal fin modified into a mating organ (gonopodium). It lives in calm, often shaded streams and pools and feeds on small animal and plant matter. Females give birth to live young. The fish is harmless to humans and has not been evaluated by the IUCN (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shadow toothcarp?
The Shadow toothcarp has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Ovoviviparous; male with a gonopodium
Where does the Shadow toothcarp live?
The Shadow toothcarp lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Costa Rica
How big does the Shadow toothcarp get?
The Shadow toothcarp grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Shadow toothcarp dangerous to humans?
No, the Shadow toothcarp 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 Shadow toothcarp edible?
The Shadow toothcarp is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Shadow toothcarp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shadow toothcarp is one of 12,519 species in the app.