The Key silverside is the smallest member of the Menidia genus (Gilbert 1992). This species can reach a length of two inches (5.1 centimeters). The Key silverside is silver-colored with distinct large eyes, 12-15 anal rays, 33-35 lateral line scales, and 12-14 pre-dorsal scales (Florida Natural Areas Inventory 2001).
Habitat & Range
The Key silverside inhabits protected, saline lagoons and ponds with restricted tidal exchange (Getter 1981, Conover 2000). They are endemic to the lower and middle Florida Keys and have been documented in lagoons on Long, Grassy, Big Pine, No Name, Little Torch, Cudjoe, Sugarloaf, Saddle Bunch,Β and Rockland Keys; Boca Chica, and Key West.
Life History
The diet of the Key silverside primarily consists of small crustaceans and insects (Getter 1981).
Spawning occurs from mid to late winter. The average egg mass for females is 42 eggs. The Key silverside is a substrate spawner, which means it lays eggs on the clear surface of suitable areas. Each egg is attached to a centralized stem by thin fibers, which keeps the eggs secure in the nesting site. The life expectancy of the Key silverside is thought to be approximately one year (Getter 1981).
