Fundulus heteroclitus
Size: to 5"
Habitat: Generally inshore in harbors, inlets, salt marshes, and other quiet waters. Tolerates a wide range of salinities.
Notes: This nondescript little fish is most commonly sold as bait for fishermen. Its Indian name means "They go in great numbers".
There are few marine reptiles and even fewer in the cold North Atlantic. While it would be possible for a salt-water crocodile to swim up from the Caribbean, there is no record of one ever having done so. Nor are there any of the sea-snakes that are famous in the South Pacific. The only marine reptiles that are encountered in our waters are sea turtles.
The one exception to this is the little Diamondback Terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin. (right) This small turtle ( about 6 inches ) is found only in salt marsh environments. Adults are very strong swimmers and have even been noted in the ocean surf, although I don't think they venture offshore.
More: Sea Turtles ...
