Goldspotted killifish
(Floridichthys carpio)
Image source: Luke Ovgard | Tag my Fish
General data
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.
