Gabon Killifish (Aphyosemion gabunense)

The Gabon Killifish is a stunning, somewhat shy but peaceful fish that are relatively hardy. These fish are suitable for both the beginner and the more advanced hobbyist.

Gabon Killifish would do best in a species only tank. Still, they can be kept with other small to medium peaceful fish in a community aquarium. These tankmates could include smaller Barbs, Tetras, Rasboras, Dwarf Cichlids and Dwarf Gouramis, as well as Corydoras and smaller Plecos. However, you should avoid housing these fish with much more significant, aggressive or boisterous species; otherwise, they will easily outcompete them for food.

The Gabon Killifish is best maintained in a soft water aquarium with plenty of plants and bogwood. Peat filtration is highly recommended, and the water movement should be gentle to simulate the slow-moving waters that these fish inhabit in the wild.

These Killifish will also appreciate some surface cover from floating plants, and you must make sure your aquarium has a tight-fitting lid as these fish are fantastic jumpers.

The male Gabon Killifish has a silvery bluish-green body contrasted with red spots. The males also have red facial markings and an orange pectoral fin. In addition, males have yellow fins with red fleck patterning and deep red edges to all their unpaired fins. Female Gabon Killifish have silvery bodies, no patterning, and all their fins are transparent.

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Feeding

In the home aquarium, the Gabon Killifish will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.

Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.

It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.

This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.