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Speckled killifish (Fundulus rathbuni) — Fundulidae

Speckled killifish

Fundulus rathbuni
Family: Fundulidae

The Speckled killifish (Fundulus rathbuni) is a freshwater fish of the family Fundulidae that grows up to 8 cm.

Length
8 cm
Water
Freshwater
Body shape
Elongated (eel-like)
Substrate
Mixed bottom
Danger
Harmless
Range
North America: USA

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Description

The speckled killifish is an egg-laying killifish (Fundulidae) from clear streams and rivers of the southeastern United States. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, olive-brown body densely covered with fine dark and pale speckles. As a bottom-oriented omnivore it lives in flowing water and eats small insects, larvae, crustaceans and plant material. The fish is harmless to humans.

Frequently asked questions

How do you recognise the Speckled killifish?

The Speckled killifish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.

Where does the Speckled killifish live?

The Speckled killifish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America: USA

How big does the Speckled killifish get?

The Speckled killifish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.

Is the Speckled killifish dangerous to humans?

No, the Speckled killifish 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.

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All data

Identification

English name
Speckled killifish sourced
Scientific name
Fundulus rathbuni
Family
Fundulidae

Appearance

Size class
Small verified
Max length (cm)
8.0 verified
Average length (cm)
6.0 verified
Body shape
Elongated (eel-like) sourced
Dominant colour
Brown sourced
Pattern
Spots sourced
Tail shape
Rounded inferred

Habitat & distribution

Water type
Freshwater sourced
Substrate
Mixed bottom sourced
Natural range
North America: USA sourced
Origin
Native inferred

Behaviour & biology

Territorial
No inferred
Reproduction
Separate sexes inferred
Sexual dimorphism
No inferred
Seasonality
Present year-round in its habitat; no pronounced seasonality known. inferred

For anglers

Fishing method
Small in size and barely an angling target; mostly caught incidentally or as baitfish. inferred
Regulations source
FishBase ↗ inferred

Safety

Danger to humans
Harmless verified
First aid
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. verified

Status & sources

Sources
FishBase via GBIF (DwC-A), CC-BY-NC 4.0

Same genus Fundulus

More from the family Fundulidae

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