Scientific Name: Cyprinodon macularius eremus

Range: Sonoran and Mojave Deserts of southern California, southern Arizona and northwest Mexico.

Habitat: Warm desert pools, marshes, streams and springs. During winter months, when the water is cold, they become dormant and burrow in the muddy bottom of their habitat.

Diet: Green and brown algae.

Breeding: Breed during spring when there are warm waters. The male becomes blue and defends his territory, chasing away all other fish except females who are ready to mate. As temperatures become extreme toward summer, evaporation dries up most pools and streams, resulting in the death of most Pupfish.

Status: Pupfish are endangered by desert development and the introduction of exotic fish species into their habitat.

Photo: Spawning male and female Quitobaquito Pupfish at Scottsdale Community College on March 26, 2007. For more photos, click on camera icon.

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