Striped Killifish

(Fundulus majalis)

The Striped Killifish is an uncommon resident of the Patuxent River at King’s Landing.  A few individuals of this species are captured each year, but weeks or even months may go by without a single record of this species.  The Striped Killifish is the only member of this group that has black striping on the body.  The adult female of this species has horizontal striping on the body while the adult male has vertical striping.  The young Striped Killifish of either sex have vertical barring.  Killifish live along the edge of the river, coming in very close to shore to feed on the small invertebrates that make up their diet.