Goldspotted killifish (Floridichthys carpio)

Image source: Luke Ovgard | Tag my Fish
General data
- Main name: Goldspotted killifish
- Climates: Subtropical
- Habitat: Saltwater
- Native: North America
- Distribution: Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico
Classification
- Genus: Floridichthys - Floridichthys
- Family: Cyprinodontidae - Pupfishes
- Order: Cyprinodontiformes - Toothcarps
- Class: Teleostei - Ray-finned fishes
- Superclass: Osteichthyes - Bony fishes
Description
The goldspotted killifish, Floridichthys carpio, is one of three recorded North American species of the family Cyprinodontidae. Members of this family are characterized by a single, spineless dorsal fin, abdominal pelvic fins, squared or rounded caudal fin and a scaly head. The body of F. carpio is short, deep and chubby, with convex dorsal profile. Darker irregular bands are present on the lower sides, and the lack of a dark spot at the base of the first dorsal fin ray differentiates this killifish from similar species. Breeding males are more brightly colored, with orange-gold spots on the cheeks and body. Western Central Atlantic: southeastern Florida in USA and Gulf of Mexico. Yucatan to Honduras. Max length: 8 cm TL Mostly found in marine, on tidal flats and creeks, but enters brackish water. Not a seasonal killifish.