Amiet's lyretail

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to the western rainforests of Cameroon (Sanaga river basin). Inhabits shaded ephemeral pools, slow streams and swamps laden with tannins and decomposing leaves (Blackwater).

Taxonomy and Morphology: Known as Amiet's Killi. It is a non-annual (or semi-annual) benthopelagic killi of the Nothobranchiidae family. The body is tapered and cylindrical, the unpaired fins are broad and rounded. Maximum size 7 cm (2.8 inches).

Social Behavior: Relatively peaceful for a killi. Males show parades and hierarchical skirmishes among themselves, rarely lethal, if kept in a group where the density dilutes the aggressiveness. One male and 3-4 females make a perfect small harem.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Males are authentic gems: light blue or metallic blue body furrowed by flashy bright orange or red streaks/spots along the flanks; fins bordered in red, yellow and light blue. Females are anonymous, olive-beige and with transparent fins.

Aquarium Setup: Small tanks (40-60 liters / 10-15 gallons) very densely planted. Mandatory shelters: dense Java moss, ferns, floaters (Salvinia) to shade, and a dark bottom (sand or peat). THE LID IS A MUST: all killis find the smallest hole to jump out.

Diet and Feeding: Predominantly insectivorous and micro-predatory. Often reluctant to commercial dry food. Must insist on live/frozen bloodworms, daphnia, enchytraeids (white worms), brine shrimp and mosquito larvae, which will maintain their dazzling colors.

Water Quality: Prefer soft and acidic water (pH 6.0-7.2, GH 4-10) but adapt to slightly higher values. The temperature must be strictly cool (22-25°C / 71-77°F): hot water (27+°C) dramatically shortens their already brief life.

Compatibility and Tankmates: While they can cohabit with small Characins or peaceful Corydoras, F. amieti gives its best in a dedicated "species" aquarium, to enhance its livery and facilitate its shy reproduction. Females and submissive males can be bullied if they have no hiding places.

Aquarium Reproduction: Semi-annual. They lay adhesive eggs daily in the "mop" (tufts of acrylic wool) or in the moss. The eggs can be incubated in water for 14-21 days, or stored in moist peat and hatched after 4-6 weeks (diapause).

Risks and Diseases: Death by dehydration from jumping on the floor (number one problem). Sensitive to Oodinium (Velvet disease) and cutaneous bacteriosis if the water quality declines. The lifespan in the aquarium usually does not exceed 2-3 years.