Fundulus nevadensis "Cyrenodontid Killifish"-Nevada 02

Taxa: Fundulus nevadensis "Cyrenodontid Killifish"

Geology: Lahontan Beds

Age: Pliocene

Locality: Hazen, Nevada

Fundulus nevadensis

Fundulus nevadensis is a species of killifish native to North America, specifically found in freshwater habitats in the Great Basin region. It is a small fish, typically inhabiting slow-moving or stagnant waters such as marshes, ponds, and streams. Like other members of the Fundulus genus, it is known for its adaptability to varying environmental conditions.

Killifish

Killifish are small, freshwater and brackish fish belonging to the order Cyprinodontiformes. They are found in diverse habitats worldwide, including temporary ponds, streams, and coastal waters. Known for their vibrant colors and resilience, killifish can survive in extreme environments, including seasonal pools that dry up. Some species have adapted by laying drought-resistant eggs. They are popular in the aquarium trade due to their striking appearance and unique reproductive strategies.

Lahontan Beds

The Lahontan Beds refer to sedimentary deposits associated with ancient Lake Lahontan, a vast Pleistocene-era lake that once covered large parts of present-day Nevada, California, and Oregon. These deposits include layers of clay, silt, sand, and tufa, which provide evidence of fluctuating water levels due to climatic changes over thousands of years. The Lahontan Beds contain important fossil records and geological features that help scientists study past environments and the region’s hydrological history.