TECOPA PUPFISH Cyprinodon nevadensis calidae (Miller, 1948) 



Order: ATHERINIFORMES Family: CYPRINODONTIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : A large-scaled form of the Cyprinodon nevadensis with 

 narrower interorbital , more posteriorly placed pelvic fins, and a wider body. 



Present distribution : A reservoir and small nearby creek flowing from a dug well at 

 Jeds Motel, Tecopa Hot Springs, about 7 miles south of Shoshone, Inyo County, California. 



Former distribution : Outflows of North and South Tecopa Hot Springs, Inyo County, 

 California, in the Amargosa River basin. 



Status : This subspecies was believed to be virtually extinct in 1966, since in January 

 only 2 individuals were noted in the outflows of the 2 hot springs. Since then, 2 additional 

 populations were discovered. 



Estimated numbers : Insufficient data . 



Fecundity : Unknown . 



Reasons for decline : Introduction of the mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis (a known 

 predator), ditching of spring outflows, and probably water contamination. 



Protective measures already taken : Classed as endangered by State of California; fully 

 protected by State law . 



Measures proposed : Locate whatever surviving populations may exist and establish refuges . 

 Number in captivity : None . 



Breeding potential in captivity : Unknown, but other subspecies of Cyprinodon 

 nevadensis have been reared. 



Remarks: The very restricted (and now mostly artificial) habitat of this subspecies 

 means that it will have to be monitored if it is to survive. Data provided by Dr. James E. 

 Deacon, Nevada Southern University, Las Vegas, and Dr. Robert R. Miller, University 

 of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Recommended as endangered by Desert Fishes Council. 



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., 68: 

 1-155, figs. 1-5. maps 1-3, pis. 1-15. 



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