Blackstriped Topminnow
(Fundulus notatus)
The blackstripe topminnow is a small fish that is active just under the waters surface often feeding on mosquito larvae and other insect larvae. To the top is an adult male and right a female.
Description
The blackstripe topminnow is a small fish that is often seen swimming just under the waters surface. They can often be identified from a distance by the bright gold spot on the top of their rather flat head. They have a dark black stripe starting on the lips which runs though the eye and all the way to the tail. This stripe is straight on females but has jagged edges on males which often makes it appear to be many small thin vertical bars. They have small dark spots on their dorsal, anal, and tail fins which are more distinct on males. Also, the dorsal and anal fins are short and rounded on females and long and pointed on males.
Habitat and Habits
Blackstripe topminnows are found in slow moving portions or streams and rivers often near aquatic vegetation. They can also be found in permanent wetlands and lakes. For this species the size of the stream or water body is less important than the presence of shallow slow areas with some vegetation. They are abundant in the western half of the Ohio.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Blackstripe topminnows lay their adhesive eggs on vegetation throughout the summer months. They will spawn multiple times and do not provide any care for the eggs or young.