Desert Pupfish and Similar Species
Cyprinodon macularius
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Desert Pupfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Dianne's Pupfish
Cyprinodon diaboli
Key differences: Found only in Devil's Hole, Nevada. Has a more slender body, larger head, and lacks pelvic fins. Distinctive coloration and smaller size (up to 3 cm).
Owens Pupfish
Cyprinodon radiosus
Key differences: Native to the Owens Valley, California. Generally larger (up to 5 cm), with a more robust body and often more pronounced vertical barring in males. Geographic isolation is a primary differentiator.
Salt Creek Pupfish
Cyprinodon salinus
Key differences: Endemic to Salt Creek in Death Valley, California. Males are typically less intensely blue and have a more elongated body shape compared to C. macularius. Also geographically distinct.
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