Profundulidae

Profundulidae is a small family of ray-finned fishes in the order Cyprinodontiformes. The family comprises the genus Profundulus and a few related, closely allied taxa; the type genus is Profundulus. Members are distributed in tropical and subtropical waters of the Americas, from southern United States through Central America to northern South America. They inhabit a range of aquatic environments, including clear rivers and streams, springs, ponds, and sometimes brackish inshore waters and temporary wetlands. They are generally small, with adult lengths typically under 10 cm, and display a modest coloration in body form, with males sometimes more vividly patterned during the breeding season.

Ecology and biology: Profundulidae are primarily carnivorous or omnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates, crustaceans, insect larvae, and occasionally algal matter. They are oviparous, laying eggs that adhere to vegetation or substrate; some species show sexual dimorphism with more colorful and elongated fins in males.

Conservation: Several species have restricted ranges and face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and the introduction of non-native species. Habitat protection and monitoring are important for many Profundulidae populations.

Taxonomy: The family was established to recognize a distinct lineage separated from Fundulidae; molecular studies have supported its status as a separate family within Cyprinodontiformes.