Eastern Mosquitofish - Gambusia holbrooki
Eastern Mosquitofish
Scientific Name: Gambusia holbrooki
Fairfax County Native: Yes
Size: 2 inches, rarely larger
Diet: Mosquito larvae and other small invertebrates
Distribution sampling sites: Map
The eastern mosquitofish is the only live bearing fish in Fairfax County. As its name implies, the mosquitofish preys on larval and pupal mosquitos and is used as a mosquito control agent in ponds. This fish is able to breathe air from the water’s surface, enabling it to survive in low oxygen conditions.