Ouachita Studfish (Fundulus caddo)

Image source: jasonrl | inaturalist.org
General data
- Main name: Ouachita Studfish
- Climates: Temperate
- Habitat: Freshwater
- Native: North America
- Distribution: Mississippi River
Classification
- Genus: Fundulus - Topminnows
- Family: Fundulidae - North American killifishes
- Order: Cyprinodontiformes - Toothcarps
- Class: Teleostei - Ray-finned fishes
- Superclass: Osteichthyes - Bony fishes
Description
The newly described species Fundulus caddo, commonly known as the Ouachita Studfish, is endemic to the Ouachita Highlands of Arkansas, USA. Its distribution is confined to the Red, Ouachita, and Saline River drainages within this region. These habitats are characterized by clear, upland streams with gravel substrates, typical of the Ouachita Highlands. The species limited distribution and specific habitat preferences highlight its ecological significance within these river systems.