Striped Killifish and Similar Species
Fundulus majalis
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Striped Killifish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Mummichog
Fundulus heteroclitus
Key differences: Mummichogs generally have a more robust body and less distinct patterning. Males typically have irregular vertical bars or blotches, not the clean, numerous vertical bars of male Striped Killifish. Females of F. heteroclitus lack the distinct horizontal stripes of female F. majalis. F. heteroclitus also has a more northern distribution, though their ranges overlap.
Spotfin Killifish
Fundulus luciae
Key differences: Spotfin Killifish are much smaller (typically less than 5 cm) and have a distinct dark spot on the posterior part of the dorsal fin, which is absent in F. majalis. Their body shape is also more slender.
Marsh Killifish
Fundulus confluentus
Key differences: Marsh Killifish are generally smaller and have a more slender body. Their coloration is typically more mottled or with irregular bars, lacking the distinct vertical bars of male F. majalis or the horizontal stripes of female F. majalis. Their range is primarily in the southeastern U.S.
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