PAHRUMP KILLIFISH Empetrichthys latos (Miller, 1948) 



Order: ATHERINIFORMES Family: CYPRINODONTIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : A cyprinodontid without pelvic fins , with a compara- 

 tively broad mouth , usually 31 or 32 scales in the lateral series , and with conical lower 

 pharyngeal teeth. 



Present distribution : A spring-fed pool on Manse Ranch, Pahrump Valley, Nye County, 

 Nevada . 



Former distribution : Three isolated springs (each with an endemic subspecies) in 

 Pahrump Valley. 



Status : Seriously threatened with extinction . 



Estimated numbers : About 100 breeding adults . The total population was about 1,300 

 in July 1967. 



Fecundity : Good, when undisturbed. 



Reasons for decline : Introduction of goldfish; modification of habitat (removal of 

 vegetation; filling or drying of 2 springs) . 



Protective measures already taken : Owner of ranch is interested in conserving this 

 species and is cooperating to keep the spring in natural condition; stock is being 

 cultured. In 1970, a transplant was made to a spring on the lower Colorado River. 



Measures proposed : Set aside other suitable habitats as refuges , 



Number in captivity : Perhaps 100 at Arizona State University. 



Culture potential in captivity : Good. 



Remarks : Empetrichthys , a genus known only from 2 desert valleys east of Death Valley , 

 is now threatened with extermination, since one of the species is apparently already 

 extinct and the other one is almost gone. Data submitted by Dr. Robert R. Miller, 

 University of Michigan. 



Reference : 



Miller , R . R . 1948 . The cyprinodont fishes of the Death Valley system of eastern 

 California and southwestern Nevada. Misc. Publ. Mus . Zool. Univ. Mich., 

 No. 68. 155 p. 



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