Approx Max Length : 6cm

Steel Blue Lyretail Killifish - Fundulopanchax gardneri Fish Profile & Care Guide

The Steel Blue Killifish (Fundulopanchax gardneri) is a robust and striking species that can coexist with other fish. However, it is essential to note that they may exhibit aggression towards small, slow-moving fish and have a deceptively large mouth relative to their size, which renders them unsuitable for general community aquariums. Moreover, these Killifish may also display territorial behaviour towards each other, highlighting the importance of providing ample space and hiding places to maintain a harmonious group dynamic.

Optimal maintenance of Steel Blue Killifish dictates their exclusive habitation within a species-specific context, ideally with a female-to-male ratio of no less than 2:1. In scenarios involving the coexistence of multiple males, meticulous attention should be directed toward the substantial embellishment of the aquarium environment. This measure ensures that competitive males possess accessible retreats for potential safety.

For those seeking to introduce tankmates, it is prudent to consider West African dwarf cichlids such as Pelvicachromis or Nannochromis. However, such arrangements are more suitable for larger aquariums, and these tankmates exhibit a preference for the lower strata of the aquatic milieu. It is pertinent to emphasize that the Steel Blue Killifish is not conducive to a general community setup.

The aquarium housing these specimens should be abundantly planted, incorporating floating flora along with a profusion of bogwood. The integration of botanical elements, including Catappa leaves, is recommended to foster soft, acidic, and tannin-stained water conditions. Such water parameters play a pivotal role in accentuating the vivid hues of the fish.

A noteworthy attribute of the Steel Blue Killifish is its affinity for inhabiting shallow waters and its remarkable leaping capability, which enables it to traverse between streams. Consequently, the presence of a secure aquarium lid is of paramount importance. Even minute openings can facilitate their escape, given their adeptness at manoeuvring through confined spaces. Hence, meticulous lid security measures must be undertaken.

Sporting an exquisite blue-steel colouration, with variable red spotting along the length of its body, the Steel Blue Killifish is a visual treat. Their anal, dorsal, and caudal fins are also fringed with bright yellow, accentuating their beauty. The female of the species displays brown dots on its flanks and a less vibrant hue on its fins. Furthermore, several ornamental strains, such as gold and albino colours, have been line-bred by aquarists, adding to the species' already impressive aesthetic appeal.

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Sexual Dimorphism

The process of differentiating between male and female Steel Blue Killifish is relatively straightforward. Male specimens are typically larger and exhibit a more vibrant colouration pattern, coupled with elongated and expanded fins compared to their female counterparts. In contrast, females are generally smaller and exhibit a less intense colouration pattern in comparison to males.

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Fundulopanchax gardneri
Year Described	1911
Other Names	Blue Lyretail, Steel-blue Aphyosemion, Gardner's killi, Gardneri Panchax Killifish
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Actinopterygii
Order	Cyprinodontiformes
Family	Nothobranchiidae
Genus	Fundulopanchax
Origins	Nigeria Cameroon
Approx Max Size	6 cm
Temperament	Semi-Aggressive
Aquarium Level	Bottom - Middle
Difficulty	Beginner - Intermediate
Shoaling	No
Best kept as	Groups 5+
Diet & Feeding	Omnivore
Reproduction	Egg Depositor
Average Lifespan	Up to 3 Years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
pH	6.0 - 7.5
GH	5 - 12
KH	5 - 8
TDS	18 - 179

Ideal Temperature Range
℉	72 - 77
℃	22 - 25

Natural Habitat

The Steel Blue Killifish is a fascinating species that can be found in the Okwoga, a petite tributary of the Cross River system located in southeastern Nigeria and western Cameroon, as well as in the Benue River drainage situated in central Nigeria, Africa. These fish exhibit a remarkable ability to thrive in a variety of aquatic environments, including creeks, brooks, swamps, marshes, streams, and pools. Although some of these habitats may dry out annually, this is not always a predictable and regular occurrence. Regardless of their habitat, Steel Blue Killifish are incredibly adaptive and exhibit unique behaviours and characteristics that make them a noteworthy addition to any aquarium.

Breeding

The Steel Blue Killifish is known for its ability to thrive in unpredictable natural habitats, which has led to the development of a unique breeding system. The species is capable of producing eggs that can withstand periods of drought while also being able to incubate and hatch them when submerged in water. Provided that the breeding conditions are suitable, the Steel Blue Killifish is relatively easy to breed, with eggs being deposited among live plants, aquatic mosses, and spawning mops.

Some breeders prefer using a small bowl of peat, which is removed and dried post-spawning. To prevent adult fish from consuming the eggs, it is advisable to remove them daily. When incubated underwater, the eggs typically hatch within 14 to 21 days, depending on the temperature. However, using the drying method, it may take approximately 3 to 4 weeks for the eggs to hatch. Once hatched, the fry becomes free-swimming almost immediately and can be nourished with a diet consisting of Artemia nauplii, microworm, and similar food items.

Diet & Feeding

In a home aquarium, the Steel Blue Killifish readily accept high-quality dried flake and pellet foods, as well as algae wafers. However, to maintain their optimal health and well-being, it is essential to provide them with a varied diet that includes frequent servings of small live or frozen food items such as daphnia, mosquito larvae, Cyclops, bloodworm, and artemia.

It is important to note that Steel Blue Killifish can be rather shy during feeding times, and their tankmates' behaviour may affect their feeding behaviour. Therefore, it is advisable to ensure that their companions are not too boisterous, as this may lead to unfair competition for food and the Steel Blue Killifish missing out on their share.