Description: A small (maximum length of 7 cm [2.75 in.]), deep-bodied
fish with a large head; a small terminal mouth; dorsal and anal fins that
are set far back on the body (almost on the tail); and no pelvic fins. The
dorsal surface is dark olive to dusky, the sides are tan with two rows of
dark spots (that may form lines), and the ventral surface is yellowish to
whitish. The tail is square, rather than forked. During breeding season,
males develop brighter coloration. Tolerant of warm water temperatures
and low oxygen concentrations.
Diet: Omnivorous. Feeds on filamentous algae and small aquatic
invertebrates.
Habitat: Primarily in spring pools, pools and their outflows, and rarely in
the upper Muddy River.
Range: Five subspecies occur throughout the pluvial White River drainage system in southeastern Nevada. This subspecies, Moapa White River springfish, is endemic to Clark County and occurs only in and around five warm-water springs in the upper Muddy River.