Life History of the Plains Killifish, Fundulus kansae (Garman), in the Smoky Hill River, Kansas

Abstract

Age and growth, food habits, and reproduction in two populations of plains killifish were studied from November, 1966 through April, 1968 in the Smoky Hill River, Kansas. Two age classes were present, with young-of-the-year comprising a third class in summer. Foods were dipteran larvae, mayfly nymphs, and ostracods. Reproductive activity was similar to that described by others. No significant differences were found in morphology of the two populations. Presence of a “pored” lateral-line series, kyphosis, and pelvic fin reduction are discussed. Parasites were Lernaea, Neascus, Posthodiplostomum, and Ichthyophthirius.