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Other: Eastern Mosquito Fish | |
 Eastern Mosquito Fish Common names - Mosquito fish (gambusia, pot belly). Description - A diminutive silver-colored, live-bearing minnow that is common throughout Florida. A greenish tinge is sometimes noted especially when looking down on the back of the fish. It has a small up-turned mouth and the area over and behind the head is somewhat flattened. Varieties - the Western Mosquito Fish G. affinis is very similar. Range - Throughout Florida and the eastern US. Habitat - Normally found in the shallows among vegetation. Often oriented upward searching for larvae and creating small ripples at the surface. Spawning Habits - A live-bearer the male has a modified anal fin (gonopodium) used for inserting the sperm into the vent of the female, which gives live birth. Feeding habits - Primarily feeds on mosquito larvae at the surface of a lake or pond. Age and Growth - Maximum size is about three inches for females and smaller for males. Sporting Qualities - N/A. Because of its affinity for consuming mosquito larvae it is often stocked in small ponds to help control mosquitoes. However, its efficacy in this role is in doubt. Eating Qualities - N/A State and World Records - N/A | |
Our mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.
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