Barren’s topminnow  (Fundulus julisia)

Description

Discovered as recently as 1982, the Barren’s topminnow is considered to be one of the most endangered fish species in eastern North America (3). Breeding males are striking pale blue-green to yellow-green on the sides of the head and body, and marked with numerous scattered dark red spots. The upperside of the male’s body is olive, with a distinctive white to pale gold stripe running down the midline of the back from the head to the dorsal fin. The dark red spotting extends onto the fins, which are translucent blue, with white and orange bands next to the black fin borders. Females and juveniles are less brightly coloured, with brownish-grey sides marked with numerous dark brown spots, and yellow tinged lower fins (3).

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