Kingdom Animalia Order Esociformes Scientific name Novumbra hubbsi Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Family Umbridae Higher classification Novumbra | |
Genus Novumbra
L. P. Schultz, 1929 Similar Umbridae, Central mudminnow, Dallia, Umbra, Esociformes | ||
The Olympic mudminnow (Novumbra hubbsi) is a fish native to the western lowlands of Washington: the Chehalis River basin, Deschutes River basin, and some Olympic Peninsula basins. It grows to 8 cm (about 3 in) in length, and is Washington's only known endemic freshwater fish species. Although they strongly resemble killifish, mudminnows are more closely related to pike and muskellunge.
The Olympic mudminnow is the only species in genus Novumbra, and one of seven species worldwide in the family Umbridae. It resides in dark areas in the bottom of the river, living on fish larvae, eggs, and small invertebrates. It prefers areas with mudbeds and dense vegetation, and has a remarkable tolerance for low oxygen levels. The Olympic mudminnow is listed as a sensitive species by the state of Washington. Although many populations are found, the range is limited, and suitable habitat is easily lost to development.
