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Gambusia affinis
| Family Name: | Poeciliidae |
| Taxonomic Group: | Vertebrates (Fish) |
| Common Name: | Mosquitofish |
Name
Description
| Size | 7 cm |
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| Description | Short and slim body with flattened head and upward-turned mouth. Typically greyish-brown with a faint bluish-purple sheen on the abdomen area. Males are typically smaller than females, with anal fin rays modified into a gonopodium. Caudal fin is rounded and transparent. |
Ecology, Habitat & Location
| Ecological Notes | Consumes small invertebrates, including mosquito larvae and can give birth to live young. Highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of conditions. Prefers shallow water with dense vegetation. |
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| Habitats | Freshwater, Urban |
| Distribution | In Singapore, it is found in drains, canals, rural and open streams. Native to South-central United States. and an introduced species in many countries to control mosquito populations. |
Status
| Species Status | Exotic / Introduced |
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| IUCN Red List | Least Concern |
Photos
References
| References | Ho, J.K.I., Ramchunder, S.J., Theng, M., Memory, A., Li, T., Clews, E., Cai, Y.X., Tan, H.H and Yeo, D.C.J.. 2016. A Guide to the Freshwater Faun of Nee Soon Swamp Forest. Singapore: Lee kong Chian Natural History Museum & Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore. 139pp |
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