Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotfin killifish (Fundulus luciae) is a brackish-water fish of the family Fundulidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The spotfin killifish is a small killifish from brackish coastal and marsh water on the east coast of the United States. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a stocky, olive-brown body; males have a conspicuous dark spot on the dorsal fin. It lives in shallow tidal pools and marsh creeks among cordgrass and tolerates strongly varying conditions. It feeds on small crustaceans, insect larvae and algae. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotfin killifish?
The Spotfin killifish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Male with a dark dorsal fin blotch; small salt marsh fish that tolerates varying salinity
Where does the Spotfin killifish live?
The Spotfin killifish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East coast of the United States
How big does the Spotfin killifish get?
The Spotfin killifish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm. On average the species is around 3 cm.
Is the Spotfin killifish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotfin 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.
Is the Spotfin killifish edible?
The Spotfin killifish 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 Fundulus
More from the family Fundulidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotfin killifish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotfin killifish is one of 12,519 species in the app.