[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Killifish – Blue Gularis (Aphyosemion sjoestedti)

Blue Gularis is another species of killifish that has a number of different color forms. However, it is not split into subspecies. While possessing some blue (as indicated by one of its common names), most forms exhibit attractive red patches and stripes on the body.

Other common names

• Red Amphyosemion, Golden Pheasant

Synonym

• Fundulopanchax sjoestedti

Family

• Aplocheilidae (sensu Parenti and Nelson)

Subfamily

• Aplocheilinae {sensu Nelson)

Distribution

• West Africa (southern Nigeria, western Cameroon, and Ghana.

Size

• Males up to 4 3/4in (12cm); females smaller.

Behavior

• Active; aggressive, especially with conspecifics.

Diet

• Mainly livefoods.

Aquarium

• Spacious and heavily planted with dark substratum (incorporating some peat). Soft, acid, tannin-stained water preferred. Temperature range: 73-79 F (23-26 C).

Breeding

• Ensure lowered water level, thick layer of peat, and subdued lighting. Introduce 1 male and several females. Eggs buried in peat. After spawning, remove peat and squeeze gently to eliminate excess moisture. Store at 64-68 F (23 26 C) for 4-6 weeks, then cover eggs with aquarium water. Eggs hatch over a number of days.