The Live-bearing tooth-carp (Gambusia affinis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The western mosquitofish is a small live-bearing fish of the family Poeciliidae reaching at most about 5 cm; males stay much smaller than females. The stout, silvery-grey body has an upturned mouth for feeding at the water surface. Males possess a gonopodium, an anal fin modified into a copulatory organ. The species is native to the south-eastern United States but has been introduced worldwide to control mosquito larvae. As a result it is now invasive in many countries, where it displaces native fish and amphibians. The mosquitofish is highly adaptable, tolerates warm, oxygen-poor water and reproduces rapidly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Live-bearing tooth-carp?
The Live-bearing tooth-carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Live-bearing tooth-carp live?
The Live-bearing tooth-carp lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Live-bearing tooth-carp get?
The Live-bearing tooth-carp grows to a maximum of about 5 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Live-bearing tooth-carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Live-bearing tooth-carp is harmless to humans.
Is the Live-bearing tooth-carp edible?
The Live-bearing tooth-carp is not usually eaten.
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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
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