Its
native distribution in Colorado includes warm-water streams of the South Platte, Republican, and
Arkansas river basins. The plains killifish has been introduced into the Colorado River basin.
This species is widely distributed and a common inhabitant of western Great Plains streams.
Its
native distribution in Colorado includes warm-water streams of the South Platte, Republican, and
Arkansas river basins. The plains killifish has been introduced into the Colorado River basin.
The plains killifish are found in shallow, quiet water near margins of stream channels or in
backwater pools over sand or silt substrates.
The upward orientation of the eyes and mouth are
adaptations for living near the water surface, where it feeds on invertebrates and algae.
Male
plains killifish often turn brilliant yellow and red during spring and summer spawning seasons.
Maximum Length: 2-4 inches (5-10 cm).
