Striped Killifish

Striped Killifish

Fundulus majalis

Size: to 6"

Habitat: Generally inshore in harbors, inlets, and other quiet waters. Tolerates a wide range of salinities.

Notes: The largest and most attractive of the many species of killifish in the New Jersey area. The male is above, the female below.

Unlike their delicate cousins the Silversides, local killies are tough as nails, and can often survive several days in nothing more than cool damp seaweed.

Striped Killifish

Goosefish

Lophius americanus

Size
to 48" and 50 lbs.

Description:
Also known as Headfish, these are a living nightmare in appearance, although they are actually rather docile, provided you don't get too close to the hungry end. Like alligators, they will snap at anything that comes within range, which makes for a number of hair-raising but amusing stories. The tails of these toothy monstrosities are excellent eating and are served in restaurants as "Monkfish" ( also known as "Headfish" and "All-mouth". ) They are extremely slimy. Females are larger than males. A related species in Europe grows to 100 lbs!