Fin's Fish Guide
The Tex-Mex gambusia (Gambusia speciosa) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The Tex-Mex gambusia is a mosquitofish (Poeciliidae) from shallow, often still fresh and brackish water of the Rio Grande region of Mexico and Texas. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a stocky, silver-grey 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 surface fish it eagerly eats mosquito larvae, small invertebrates and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tex-Mex gambusia?
The Tex-Mex gambusia has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Tex-Mex gambusia live?
The Tex-Mex gambusia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. North America: Mexico, USA
How big does the Tex-Mex gambusia get?
The Tex-Mex gambusia grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Tex-Mex gambusia dangerous to humans?
No, the Tex-Mex gambusia 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gambusia
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Tex-Mex gambusia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tex-Mex gambusia is one of 12,519 species in the app.