Identity
Fundulus julisia is the Barrens Topminnow. It is distinct from other topminnows that may occur in the same region. Its restricted distribution and colorful appearance have made it a focus of conservation breeding and habitat work.
Size and Weight
A reported upper total length is 9.4 cm, approximately 3.7 inches. Some short summaries list only 7 cm, while an aquarium account describes fish approaching four inches. The larger documented upper value is retained here. A dependable maximum weight was not verified.
Habitat and Natural Food
Vegetated pools and margins of springs and spring-fed creeks provide habitat. Young fish take very small crustaceans and midges. Adults add larger invertebrates, including aquatic and terrestrial insects. Surface feeding makes small insects particularly relevant to its natural history.
Conservation
This is a conservation profile rather than a sport-fishing recommendation. Protecting spring flow and suitable vegetation helps preserve its habitat. Its occurrence in one spring system does not establish a population in neighboring lakes or streams.
A Small Fish Tied to Springs
The combination of spring-fed water and vegetated margins defines a limited kind of habitat. Maintaining those conditions matters for a fish with few places to live. A generic description of a Tennessee freshwater fish would miss that dependence.
All Lakes With Barrens Topminnow
Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Barrens Topminnow records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.