The Banded killifish (Fundulus diaphanus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Fundulidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The banded killifish is a slender killifish of the family Fundulidae reaching about 13 cm. The silvery body has a flat back and an upturned mouth, a build suited to hunting just below the water surface, and bears numerous narrow, dark cross-bars along the flank (especially in the female). The species is native to the fresh water of eastern North America and lives in schools in shallow, vegetated water of lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers; it tolerates brackish water. It eats insect larvae, especially mosquito larvae, zooplankton and small snails. In spring and summer the sticky, threaded eggs attach to water plants. It is an important prey fish and mosquito controller.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded killifish?
The Banded killifish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Banded killifish live?
The Banded killifish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds.
How big does the Banded killifish get?
The Banded killifish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Banded killifish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded killifish is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded killifish edible?
The Banded killifish is not usually eaten.
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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
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