Threatened fishes of the world: Poecilia latipunctata Meek, 1904 (Poeciliidae)

Abstract

Common names: Tamesi molly (US), Topote del Tamesi (MX). Conservation status: Listed as ‘critically endangered’ by the IUCN based on population declines, fragmentation of populations, and decline of habitat quality. The species is federally protected by the Mexican government (SEDESOL 1994). Identification: Poecilia latipunctata is a typical molly characterized by a longitudinal stripe of discontinuous black spots midside of body. The maximum size is ~50 mm. Illustration by Debby Kaspari. Distribution: Confined to the headwaters of the Rio Tamesi (Rios Guayalejo and Mante), Tamaulipas, Mexico. It was introduced into La Media Luna, San Luis Potosi (Miller et al. 2005). Ecology: This species prefers gravelly to muddy habitats with clear, flowing water and aquatic vegetation. It also occurs in irrigation ditches with lower flow and overhanging vegetation. Poecilia latipunctata predominantly feeds on detritus and algae (Darnell 1962). It occurs sympatrically with two other molly species, P. mexicana and P. formosa, and has been documented to serve as sperm donor for gynogenetic P. formosa females (Niemeitz et al. 2002). Although phenotypically a short-fin molly, the species is closely related to the long fin clade within the mollies (Ptacek et al. 2005). Threats: The species is threatened predominantly through fragmentation of suitable habitats as well as habitat deterioration by intense agriculture and invasive species. Conservation recommendations: The species is protected by Mexican law, but no specific conservation actions have been taken to date. The current distribution and abundance of P. latipunctata should be Environ Biol Fish (2009) 85:31–32 DOI 10.1007/s10641-009-9451-1