Defining Characteristics and Behavior:
Killifish, or mud minnows, are a group of small fish that are under 7 inches in length. Gulf killifish have light blue-green to yellow spots on the side body and on the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins. Unlike most fish, killifish can live in fresh and highly salty water but prefer grassy tidal areas in brackish water. They stalk the shallows of coastal rivers, marshes, and bays, feeding on small animals that live on the bottom. The Gulf killifish can reach up to 7 inches in length and displays sexual dimorphism, with males more colorful and patterned than females with plain tan to silver color.
Habitat Preferences:
- The Gulf Killifish is found in coastal areas of the United States, ranging from Texas to Florida.
- They inhabit a variety of aquatic habitats, including marshes, swamps, and estuaries.
- They prefer shallow, slow-moving water with vegetation and mud or sand substrate.
Average Lifecycle:
- The Gulf Killifish has a lifespan of up to 2 years.
- Breeding occurs in the spring and summer, with females laying up to 300 eggs at a time.
- The eggs hatch in 5-7 days, and the larvae develop quickly, reaching sexual maturity in just a few months.
Fun Facts:
- The Gulf Killifish is also known as the "bull minnow" or "top minnow".
- They are often used as bait for recreational fishing.
- Gulf Killifish have been studied extensively for their ability to adapt to polluted environments, making them a model species for ecotoxicology research.
