Approx Max Length : 5cm

Two Stripe Lyretail Killifish - Aphyosemion Bivittatum "Funge" Fish Profile & Care Guide

The Two Stripe Lyretail Killifish (Aphyosemion bivittatum) is a vibrantly coloured West African species native to southeastern Nigeria and southwestern Cameroon, typically reaching a length of about 5 cm. Notably, it occurs in two well-documented natural colour morphs, commonly referred to in the killifish community as "Funge" (of Cameroonian origin) and "Biafra" (of Nigerian origin). These fish are ideal for intermediate to advanced aquarists. While not exceptionally demanding, they require stable water conditions to thrive and display their full colouration.

The Two Stripe Lyretail Killifish is a peaceful and visually striking species that adds movement and colour to the upper regions of a planted aquarium. While they thrive best in species-dedicated setups, ideally as a single male-female pair, they can also coexist with other gentle tankmates that prefer similar soft, acidic water conditions. Suitable companions include small, non-aggressive species such as Pencilfish, Kuhli Loaches, Corydoras catfish, and Sparkling or Croaking Gouramis. Although generally docile, males may occasionally display mild territorial behaviour, which rarely results in harm. Ensuring adequate space and well-structured hiding spots helps reduce any potential stress or competition.

To mimic their natural environment, the aquarium should be densely planted with the inclusion of floating vegetation, and accented with pieces of bogwood to provide shaded, sheltered areas. Peat filtration is highly recommended to maintain the soft, slightly acidic, tannin-rich water that enhances their natural colouration and overall well-being.

Visually, A. bivittatum is characterised by an elongated, vibrantly coloured body marked with two dark horizontal stripes composed of red spots; these patterns can vary between local populations. Males are especially colourful, often displaying golden-brown backs, iridescent blue flanks, and golden undersides. Their tall, pointed dorsal and anal fins are typically pastel green to yellow with vivid red edging, while the caudal fin features a green base adorned with red spotting and bright yellow tips, creating an eye-catching lyretail effect.

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Sexual Dimorphism

In Two Stripe Lyretail Killifish, sexual dimorphism is pronounced: males are noticeably larger and far more vibrant than females. They display extended and elaborately shaped dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, the characteristic lyretail and exhibit intense colouration. In contrast, females are smaller and comparatively subdued in appearance. Their colouration is generally yellow-grey, with the two longitudinal stripes present on both sexes composed of darker pigmentation, but females lack fin extensions and elaborate markings. Their fins are largely transparent or pale with minimal spotting, and they exhibit noticeably shorter, rounded fin shapes.

Male Female

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Aphyosemion Bivittatum "Funge"
Year Described	1895
Other Names	Two Banded Killi, Red Lyretail Killifish
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Actinopterygii
Order	Cyprinodontiformes
Family	Nothobranchiidae
Genus	Aphyosemion
Origins	Nigeria Cameroon
Approx Max Size	5 cm
Temperament	Peaceful
Aquarium Level	Middle - Top
Difficulty	Intermediate
Shoaling	No
Best kept as	Pairs
Diet & Feeding	Omnivore
Reproduction	Egg Depositor
Average Lifespan	Up to 3 Years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
pH	5.5 - 7.0
GH	1 - 6

Ideal Temperature Range
℉	72 - 77
℃	22 - 25

Natural Habitat

The Two Stripe Lyretail Killifish is native to West Africa, where it inhabits the lowland rainforest regions of southeastern Nigeria and southwestern Cameroon. Within this range, it is typically found in shallow, slow-moving freshwater environments such as forest streams, swamps, and marshy pools. These habitats are characterised by soft, acidic water, a result of tannins released from decaying leaf litter and organic material. The dense canopy overhead filters sunlight, creating shaded, dimly lit conditions that contribute to the species' vibrant colouration. The substrate in these areas is often composed of mud, sand, or leaf litter, with abundant aquatic vegetation and submerged roots providing shelter and breeding sites.

Breeding

To successfully breed the Two Stripe Lyretail Killifish, a dedicated softwater spawning setup is essential. This setup, which includes a small, separate tank with gentle filtration, ideally incorporating a peat-based medium, and furnished with dense clumps of Java moss or spawning mops, provides suitable surfaces for egg deposition. Spawning typically occurs over several days, during which the moss or mops should be inspected regularly.

Collected eggs should be carefully transferred to a sealed container filled with moist (but not submerged) peat moss and kept at a stable temperature of around 22 °C. After an incubation period of 14 to 21 days, the eggs can be gently transferred into a hatching tank containing clean, soft water.

Hatching typically occurs within 48 hours, although this timeframe may vary depending on the water temperature. This "dry incubation" technique using damp peat before rehydration has been shown to produce a significantly higher hatch rate than placing freshly laid eggs directly into water. It more closely mimics the natural seasonal breeding cycle of the species, helping to reduce fungal losses during development.

Diet & Feeding

The Two Stripe Lyretail Killifish is omnivorous, thriving on a varied diet that mimics its natural feeding habits. In captivity, it readily accepts live or frozen insect larvae, small crustaceans such as brine shrimp and daphnia, and mosquito larvae. It may also consume high-quality flake or pellet foods when its diet is varied and supplemented appropriately. Offering a diverse mix of protein-rich foods is key to supporting their vibrant colouration and maintaining optimal health. These fish can be hesitant feeders in community setups, so providing frequent small meals and ensuring that each individual receives adequate portions helps reduce stress and competition. Overfeeding should be avoided to prevent deterioration in water quality; typically, feeding two to three small servings per day is recommended.