Gambusia holbrooki
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| Eastern Mosquito Fish | |
| |
| Eastern Mosquito Fish | |
| Species | Gambusia holbrooki |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Min. Tank Size | 75.708 liters 75,708.236 mL 20 US Gallons (75.7L) |
| Size | 3.15 in
3.5-8 cm (1.4-3.1") |
| pH | 6.0 - 8.8 |
| Temp. | 288.15 K 59 °F 518.67 °R 308.15 K |
| Stocking Ratio | 1:3 M:F |
| Availability | Uncommon |
| Diet | |
| Life Span |
3-5 years |
Contents |
[edit] Alternative names
- Mosquito Fish
[edit] Sexing
- Females notably larger than males. Females have gravid spot near anal fin when pregnant. Males have gonopodium.
[edit] Reproduction
- These fish are livebearers, and just putting males and females in a tank will cause mating. Females will have anywhere from 3 - 100 fry per clutch, and her gestation period will last anywhere from 3 - 4 weeks. Adults will cannibalize young if the young are not given sufficient places to hide. Good hiding spots include java moss and large marbles at the bottom of the tank.
[edit] Tank compatibility
- This is a rather aggressive species and should be kept in a species-only tank. Can have a male- or female-only tank.
[edit] Diet and Feeding
- With work, will accept flakes. Enjoys Bloodworms and brine shrimp as they are similar to their food in the wild. Can be feed up to three times daily.
[edit] Environment Specifics
- This is a hardy fish and can be used to cycle aquariums. Plants and hiding places for females and fry are recommended. Can be kept in ponds for minimal mosquito control or to complete the ecosystem.
[edit] Distribution
- Native to the eastern US. Has been introduced worldwide in attempt to control mosquitoes. Has had very little impact on mosquito population. Hurt the local fish populations more.
[edit] Behaviour
- Aggressive. Males more aggressive than females.
[edit] Identification
- Resembles a guppy in body shape and size. Olive colored body with purple and silver highlights.
[edit] Pictures
[edit] External links
Facts about Gambusia holbrooki
| Availability | Uncommon |
| Common name | Eastern Mosquito Fish |
| Diet | Omnivore + |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Family | Poeciliidae + |
| Foods | Flake Food +, Live Food +, and Other Foods + |
| Maximum Size | 3.15 in (8 cm) + |
| Maximum age | 5 + |
| Maximum pH | 8.8 + |
| Maximum temperature | 308.15 K (35 °C, 95 °F, 554.67 °R) + |
| Minimum Tank Size | 20 US Gallon (75.708 liters, 75,708.236 mL) + |
| Minimum pH | 6 + |
| Minimum temperature | 288.15 K (15 °C, 59 °F, 518.67 °R) + |
| Scientific name | Gambusia holbrooki |
