Kingdom Animalia Order Esociformes Genus Umbra Higher classification Umbra | Phylum Chordata Family Umbridae Scientific name Umbra pygmaea Rank Species | |
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Similar Umbra, Umbridae, Central mudminnow, European mudminnow, Western tubenose goby | ||
The eastern mudminnow (Umbra pygmaea) is a species of freshwater fish belonging to the family Umbridae. It is native to eastern North America, but has been introduced to Europe. It feeds primarily on insect larvae and other small aquatic invertebrates.
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Description
It is an elongated, stout-bodied fish, brown or yellow-green in color, with about 10 or more dark, narrow, lateral stripes separated by pale spaces, although there is no lateral line on the fish. The pelvic fin lies somewhat farther back on the body, such that it rests below the dorsal fin. The body is elongated, and the maximum size of the fish is 15 cm (5.9 in).
Distribution and habitat
The native range of the eastern mudminnow is from New York south to Florida, and west to Georgia. It has also been introduced to Europe. It is generally found in still or slow-moving waters, often in dense vegetation.
