Esmaeilius isfahanensis

biology_ecology

Habitat. Springs and spring-fed streams. Biology. Live up to 3 years, mature in a few months at about 25 mm SL, usually late in year of birth. Males establish territories along banks, usually in dense vegetation but also between rocks, which they defend against rival males. Spawns April – July. Females spawn with one or more males, usually in algae or other vegetation near surface or in gravel beds. Few eggs are laid in the substrate during a spawning event. Individual females may produce several clutches in one day. Feeds on algae, detritus, and small invertebrates.

Handbook of Freshwater Fishes of West Asia

conservation

Conservation status. CR; appears to be declining within its very small range. May have disappeared from Varzaneh.

Handbook of Freshwater Fishes of West Asia

diagnosis

Diagnosis. Distinguished from other species of Esmaeilius by: ● male with black dorsal, pelvic and anal margins / ● female mottled with many large blotches or narrow bars on flank, usually fused into a midlateral, wide, dark-brown band / ○ 25 – 29 total scales along lateral series / ○ female with a distinctive black spot at caudal base. Size up to 45 mm SL.

Handbook of Freshwater Fishes of West Asia

discussion

Remarks. Esmaeilius sophiae inhabits Gavkhoni marshes in very lower Zayandeh drainage. The black spot at the caudal base in the female is much more pronounced in small individuals and fades in large adults of more than 25 mm SL.

Handbook of Freshwater Fishes of West Asia