[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Killifish – Red-seam Killifish (Aphyosemion calliurum)

The Red-seam Killifish is a stumpier species than Aphyosemion australe (Lyretail), and it lacks the long extensions to the tail that are characteristic of its relative. Several naturally occurring color forms are known. In this species males are far more colorful than the smaller females.

Other common name

• Banner Lyretail

Family

• Aplocheilidae (sensu Parenti and Nelson)

Subfamily

• Aplocheilinae (sensu Nelson)

Distribution

• West Africa, including Cameroon and Niger delta.

Size

• Males around 1 3/4in (4.5cm); females smaller.

Behavior

• Quarrelsome and territorial toward rivals.

Diet

• Livefoods preferred, but will accept other diets.

Aquarium

• A “quiet” tank preferred —heavily planted, with subdued lighting, dark substratum (incorporating some peat), and preferably tannin-stained water. Soft to medium-hard, slightly acid water recommended. Temperature range: 75-79 F (24-26 C).

Breeding

• Eggs are scattered among fine- leaved vegetation or a spawning mop (strands of nontoxic wool attached to a cork that is floated on the water surface). Hatching takes about 2 weeks.