Porthole Livebearers are aptly named. The little spots along their lateral line could totally be hiding tiny cannon; you’d never know.

Species: Porthole Livebearer (Poeciliopsis gracilis)
Location: Undisclosed Location, American Southwest
Date: August 8, 2018

I didn’t end up pursuing a career as a fish biologist. From the time I was little, it was my dream. The reality was I graduated from high school in 2008, the year The Great Recession peaked, and by the time I got to college, most career fields had dismal offerings. I was one of about 35 people in the Environmental Science program at Oregon Tech. I was fascinated by nature, biology, and being able to work with fish. I was not fascinated by math, and I had the grades to prove it.

At the beginning of my freshman year, I took a long, hard look at myself and did what I hated most: math. There were two new fisheries biology jobs posted in the entire state of Oregon during 2008 when I started college. I had about 150 people in my program, which was one of several around the state. Even accounting for those folks planning to go into the fields of veterinary medicine, organic chemistry, hydrology, geology, botany, or ag science after finishing their undergrad degree, I was still competing with dozens of people for one of those two jobs. Four years down the road, there might be more than two, but for the guy who got a his only grade lower than a B on his first attempt at Math 111, it didn’t look promising.

So I switched to a dual degree in Operations Management and Marketing. These two fields were always hiring, and I figured I could keep fishing as a hobby. So I did.

By the time I got into Lifelist fishing and began my #SpeciesQuest in earnest, I was years removed from college. In fact, I was years removed from the private sector having settled into a job teaching high school business classes and completing a Master’s in Postsecondary Education. Despite the tedium and endless nonsense provided by a Master’s in higher ed, dead languages were never covered. Since I’d left my undergrad Environmental Science studies before taking many courses, I couldn’t speak Latin. Not even a little.

Like Prince, Beyonce, and Jewel pre-glow up, fish have two names: scientific name (in Latin) and common name (in English).

I didn’t know Latin, so I typically learned just the common name and called it good. Sometimes, this was problematic, but usually, it worked out fine. I know some people use mnemonics to remember names, but usually, I don’t have to with fish. I can’t even remember every woman I’ve dated (the list isn’t that long), but I can remember every fish I’ve caught (this list is pretty long). Yet, if a fish has some sort of unique identifier, it stands out that much more.

The Porthole Livebearer gets its common name for two reasons.

Let’s address the livebearer portion first. This is simple. It’s called a livebearer because it bears live young instead of laying eggs. This is fairly uncommon amongst fishes, but it makes for an interesting chance to learn a vocabulary word. I’m a teacher, remember, so don’t act surprised. Most mammals and some other animals give live birth. We refer to these fertile females full of young pregnant. You knew that, though. But the egg-layers of the world (most reptiles, amphibians, fish, birds, the Cleveland Browns) cannot be pregnant. Instead, we refer to these animals as gravid.

As for the porthole part, this will rely on your knowledge of 15th through 19th century naval construction. Portholes were small, reinforced openings built into the sides of wooden ships. They were used as windows, means for passing cargo dockside, and later, for cannon. Porthole Livebearers have several large spots along their sides that someone thought were reminiscent to portholes.

So I never made it into the world of fisheries biology, but I still stay connected to this underwater world one little fish at a time.

Please consider subscribing to my weekly column and access my past columns for as low as $1 per month by clicking “Become a Patron” below.

Become a Patron!

#SpeciesQuest // #CaughtOvgard

Read the next entry in #SpeciesQuest here: Species #181 — Longfin Dace.

Luke Ovgard Freshwater Fishing, Micro Fishing, SpeciesQuest , , , , ,

106 Replies

  1. Hello! I’ve been reading your web site for some time now and finally got the courage to go ahead and give you a shout out from Atascocita Texas! Just wanted to tell you keep up the fantastic work!

  4. I will immediately take hold of your rss feed as I can’t find your e-mail subscription hyperlink or newsletter service. Do you have any? Please allow me understand so that I may subscribe. Thanks.

  15. Every day, the world shifts through Climate crisis.
    Our newsroom highlights major updates on Economic trends with depth and accuracy.

    Explore explainer series on Education reforms. We cover how Technology trends are evolving rapidly.

    Our daily brief brings you key stories on Entertainment buzz
    and emerging trends in Economic trends. Whether you’re interested in Politics, we have you covered.

    Look for editorials that discuss the effects of Crime reports
    or reactions to Science breakthroughs. Our commitment is to deliver balanced views on Political updates
    and factual reporting of Global markets.
    Watch live updates on Climate crisis as events unfold.
    You’ll also find summaries on Education reforms in our daily digest.

    We prioritize clarity and accuracy in Political updates and depth in reporting Economic trends.
    Each report aims to connect the dots between Health updates and
    their broader impact.
    Stay informed with our continuing updates on Breaking news.

  16. Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as though you relied on the video to make your point. You clearly know what youre talking about, why throw away your intelligence on just posting videos to your blog when you could be giving us something enlightening to read?

  19. Very good written article. It will be helpful to anyone who usess it, including myself. Keep doing what you are doing – looking forward to more posts.

  24. Howdy! I know this is kind of off topic but I was wondering which blog platform are you using for this website? I’m getting tired of WordPress because I’ve had problems with hackers and I’m looking at options for another platform. I would be great if you could point me in the direction of a good platform.

  31. Thanks for sharing excellent informations. Your web site is so cool. I am impressed by the details that you?¦ve on this site. It reveals how nicely you understand this subject. Bookmarked this web page, will come back for extra articles. You, my friend, ROCK! I found simply the info I already searched all over the place and just could not come across. What a perfect website.

  36. I’d have to check with you here. Which isn’t something I normally do! I enjoy studying a submit that will make folks think. Also, thanks for permitting me to comment!

  38. Pingback: ordering androxal buy in the uk
  39. Pingback: purchase enclomiphene cost on prescription
  40. Pingback: how to order rifaximin uk no prescription
  41. Pingback: buying xifaxan spain over the counter
  42. Pingback: order staxyn cheap where
  43. Pingback: cheapest buy avodart purchase discount
  44. Pingback: buy flexeril cyclobenzaprine generic version
  45. Pingback: ordering dutasteride canada suppliers
  46. Pingback: buy cheap gabapentin australia online no prescription
  47. Pingback: get fildena uk order
  48. Pingback: get itraconazole purchase online safely
  49. Pingback: kamagra bez lékařského předpisu online
  50. Pingback: kamagra l'australie a besoin d'une ordonnance

  51. I have been absent for a while, but now I remember why I used to love this site. Thanks , I will try and check back more frequently. How frequently you update your web site?

  55. whoah this weblog is wonderful i love studying your articles. Keep up the good work! You understand, many people are looking around for this info, you can aid them greatly.

  56. I like this website so much, saved to favorites. “Respect for the fragility and importance of an individual life is still the mark of an educated man.” by Norman Cousins.

  57. It’s actually a nice and useful piece of info. I’m glad that you shared this useful information with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.

  60. Greetings! I recently came across this fantastic article on online gambling
    and simply resist the chance to share it. If you’re someone who’s looking to learn more about
    the realm of online casinos, it is definitely.

    I have always been interested in online gaming, and after
    reading this, I gained so much about the various types of casino games.

    This post does a great job of explaining everything from game strategies.
    If you’re new to the whole scene, or even if you’ve been gambling for years, this guide is an essential read.
    I highly recommend it for anyone who needs to get informed with online gambling
    options.

    Not only, the article covers some great advice about
    choosing a trusted online casino, which I think is extremely important.
    Many people overlook this aspect, but this post really shows you the best ways
    to stay safe.

    What I liked most was the section on rewards and free spins, which I think is crucial when choosing a site to play on. The
    insights here are priceless for anyone looking to take advantage of bonus offers.

    In addition, the tips about limiting your losses were very useful.
    The advice is clear and actionable, making it easy for players to
    take control of their gambling habits and avoid pitfalls.

    The advantages and disadvantages of online gambling were also thoroughly discussed.

    If you’re thinking about trying your luck at an online casino, this article is a great starting point to grasp both the excitement and the
    risks involved.
    If you’re into roulette, you’ll find tons of valuable tips here.
    The article really covers all the popular games in detail, giving you the tools you need to enhance your
    gameplay. Whether you’re into competitive games like poker
    or just enjoy a casual round of slots, this article has plenty for everyone.

    I also appreciated the discussion about payment options.
    It’s crucial to know that you’re using a platform that’s safe and protected.
    It’s really helps you make sure your personal
    information is in good hands when you play online.

    If you’re wondering where to start, I would recommend reading this guide.
    It’s clear, informative, and packed with valuable insights.

    Without a doubt, one of the best articles I’ve come across in a while on this topic.

    So, I strongly suggest checking it out and giving it a read.
    You won’t regret it! Believe me, you’ll finish reading feeling like a
    better prepared player in the online casino world.

    If you’re just starting, this article is an excellent resource.

    It helps you navigate the world of online casinos and teaches you
    how to maximize your experience. Definitely worth checking out!

    I really liked how well-researched and thorough this
    article is. I’ll definitely be coming back to it whenever I
    need tips on online gambling.
    Has anyone else read it yet? What do you think? Let me know your
    thoughts in the comments!

  64. In today’s fast-evolving financial landscape, it’s rare to find a
    platform that seamlessly bridges both crypto and fiat operations, especially for large-scale operations.
    However, I came across this forum topic that dives deep into a website which supports
    everything from buying Bitcoin to managing fiat payments,
    and it’s especially recommended for corporate accounts.

    The recommendation shared by users in the discussion made it clear that this platform
    is more than just a simple exchange – it’s a
    full-fledged financial ecosystem for both individuals and companies.

    Whether you’re running a startup or managing finances for a multinational corporation,
    the features highlighted in this discussion could be a game-changer – multi-user accounts,
    compliance tools, fiat gateways, and crypto custody all in one.

    I’ve rarely come across such a balanced discussion that addresses both crypto-savvy users and traditional finance professionals, especially in the context of business-scale needs.

    Highly suggest taking a look if you’re involved in finance, tech, or enterprise operations.

    The recommendation alone is worth checking out.

  68. I’d like to share this is by no means any kind of advertisement.
    This is just a raw personal story that I felt to share because others may
    be going through the same thing. In case you’re battling with gambling or even just
    starting to see the warning signs, take a moment to read this.

    I became someone who thought a quick flutter couldn’t
    hurt. Initially, it felt like harmless fun—a blackjack
    game after work—nothing serious. Eventually, it spiraled.

    Before I knew it, I was checking odds more than my bank balance.
    Sure, there were wins, but they just made it more addictive.
    I kept running after that high. One weekend, I lost
    nearly [insert loss amount here, e.g., “$2,000”]
    in less than two days. That was my savings. And still,
    I went back the next day.
    What’s worse is how much I lied—my family.
    I was completely disgusted with myself, and yet
    I couldn’t walk away. If that sounds familiar, you know what
    I mean.
    Then I came across something I randomly clicked on—and no, I’m
    not going to name it here to advertise—but it changed everything for me.
    I’m not saying it’s a magical solution, but it made me
    see what I was doing I was in.
    The article wasn’t judgmental. It just spoke honestly
    in a way I’d never understood before. It explained how
    gambling is more than just a bad hobby, and how everything about it is built to make you lose.

    That night, I realized that I had a problem.
    And more importantly, that I could stop. It gave me insight that helped me take the hardest
    step towards reclaiming my life.
    Since then, I’ve deleted every betting app
    I ever had. I’ve talked to my partner. It’s not easy.
    It’s still a fight sometimes. But I’m winning.

    If gambling is hurting you, then please read that article.

    {

  69. Allow me share this is by no means any kind of advertisement.
    This is just a raw personal story that I felt to share because someone might need it.
    Should you be struggling with gambling or even noticing things getting out of hand, don’t
    scroll away just yet.
    I became someone who thought a little bet here and there couldn’t hurt.

    It all began innocently enough—a few sports bets with
    friends—nothing serious. Eventually, it spiraled.
    Without realizing, I was placing bets every night. Occasionally, I
    won, but they just made it worse. I kept running after that high.

    One weekend, I wasted nearly [insert loss amount here, e.g., “$2,000”] in less than two days.
    That was my kid’s school fees. And still, I told
    myself I could win it back.
    What’s worse is how much I lied—my family. I was completely
    disgusted with myself, and yet I couldn’t walk away.
    If you’re there now, you know what I mean.
    Then I came across this article—and no, I’m not going to name it here to advertise—but it changed everything for me.
    I’m not saying it’s a one-size-fits-all answer, but it made me recognize the trap
    I was in.
    The article wasn’t judgmental. It just broke down the cycle of gambling
    in a way I’d never heard before. It explained how gambling is not just a habit, and how everything
    about it is built to make you lose.
    That moment, I finally admitted to myself that I had a problem.
    And more importantly, that I could stop. It gave me tools that helped me take the first real step towards reclaiming my life.

    Since then, I’ve not gambled once. I’ve joined a support group.
    It’s not easy. There are days I struggle. But I’m staying strong.

    If gambling is hurting you, then please read that article.
    {

  71. hello!,I really like your writing very so much! share we keep up a correspondence more approximately your article on AOL? I require a specialist on this house to unravel my problem. May be that is you! Taking a look forward to peer you.

  75. **mind vault**

    Mind Vault is a premium cognitive support formula created for adults 45+. It’s thoughtfully designed to help maintain clear thinking

  78. Thanks for sharing superb informations. Your web-site is so cool. I am impressed by the details that you have on this blog. It reveals how nicely you understand this subject. Bookmarked this website page, will come back for extra articles. You, my pal, ROCK! I found just the information I already searched everywhere and just could not come across. What an ideal web site.

  79. I have been absent for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this blog. Thanks, I will try and check back more frequently. How frequently you update your website?

  87. I have read a few just right stuff here. Definitely price bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how so much attempt you place to make the sort of wonderful informative website.

  92. I do agree with all the ideas you’ve presented in your post. They are very convincing and will definitely work. Still, the posts are very short for starters. Could you please extend them a bit from next time? Thanks for the post.

  94. Howdy just wanted to give you a quick heads up. The words in your article seem to be running off the screen in Safari. I’m not sure if this is a format issue or something to do with web browser compatibility but I figured I’d post to let you know. The design look great though! Hope you get the problem solved soon. Thanks

  96. It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d definitely donate to this excellent blog! I suppose for now i’ll settle for bookmarking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to brand new updates and will talk about this site with my Facebook group. Chat soon!

  97. There are some attention-grabbing closing dates on this article but I don’t know if I see all of them heart to heart. There may be some validity but I’ll take maintain opinion till I look into it further. Good article , thanks and we would like extra! Added to FeedBurner as effectively

  99. Thanks for another informative website. Where else could I get that kind of info written in such an ideal way? I’ve a project that I am just now working on, and I have been on the look out for such information.

  100. Hey There. I found your blog using msn. This is a very well written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post. I will certainly comeback.

  101. Awesome blog you have here but I was curious if you knew of any user discussion forums that cover the same topics talked about here? I’d really like to be a part of community where I can get advice from other experienced people that share the same interest. If you have any suggestions, please let me know. Kudos!

  103. Hi my loved one! I want to say that this post is amazing, great written and come with approximately all vital infos. I would like to peer extra posts like this .

  106. I have been exploring for a little for any high-quality articles or weblog posts in this sort of area . Exploring in Yahoo I at last stumbled upon this site. Reading this information So i am satisfied to express that I’ve a very excellent uncanny feeling I discovered exactly what I needed. I so much no doubt will make sure to don?¦t overlook this web site and give it a look on a constant basis.

Leave a Reply to Anonymous Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Species #179 — Desert Pupfish
Species #181 — Longfin Dace