Mosquito Fish(Gambusia affinis)

Scientific Name(s): Fundulus inurus, Gambusia affinis affinis, Gambusia affinis katruelis, Gambusia gracilis, Gambusia humilis, Gambusia patruelis, Haplochilus melanops

 

Common Name(s): Mosquito Fish, Gambusia

 

Family: Poeciliidae

 

Species Type: Livebearers

 

Maximum Size: 3 inches

 

Life Span: 3 years

 

Natural Habitat: Central American Lakes

 

Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons

 

Tank Region: Middle of tank.

 

Possible Tank Mates: Other peaceful community fish.

 

Description: The mosquito fish got it's name from the idea that it eats mosquito larvae and can therefore reduce mosquito populations. While the mosquito fish does indeed eat mosquito and insect larvae, it actually prefers to eat fry of other small fish species and tadpoles. This fish species is considered a pest in many parts of the world due to the stress it can cause on native wildlife populations. Because of this, mosquito fish should not be released to the wild.

The mosquito fish is generally an unassuming drab colored fish. There are orange or yellow varieties available. The mosquito fish is very easy to keep and could make a good starter fish.

 

Temperature Range 58°F - 66°F

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pH Range 5.9 - 8.1

pH 5.0

pH 6.0

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pH 8.0

pH 9.0

 

Hardness 3° - 30°

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Breeding Information: Mosquito Fish are prolific livebearers. If mix males and females you will have fry.

 

Sexing Information: Males tend to be smaller and have a gonopodium

 

Diet: Does well with flake or pellet food.

 

Temperment: Generally peaceful but will eat fry of other fish.

 

Common Diseases: None specific to species

 

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Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis)