Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Peaceful overall, though males can be aggressive towards one another. They are incredibly active and constantly in motion, driven by the biological clock of their short lives. They display brilliant colors when courting or posturing against rivals.

Diet

Micro-predator

An obligate carnivore that demands a varied diet of live foods to reach maturity quickly. Live daphnia, grindal worms, and baby brine shrimp are essential. They can sometimes be coaxed to eat frozen bloodworms, but live food yields the best results.

Adult size

6.5 cm

Sex ratio

Harem

One male to multiple females is the ideal setup to prevent females from being bred to death. Males are relentless in their pursuit of females. Providing dense mops or plants gives females a place to rest.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

They require heavy, frequent feeding, up to three or four times a day. Because they only live a few months, their growth rate is explosive and demands constant high-protein fuel. Never allow uneaten food to decay in their small enclosures.

Bioload

Low

Produces a very minimal bioload, making them ideal for nano aquariums. Small, gentle filtration like a sponge filter is adequate. Frequent water changes are necessary to keep their environment pristine given their remarkably short lifespan.

Flow

Stagnant

Prefers nearly stagnant water, replicating the temporary seasonal pools they inhabit in the wild. A sponge filter should be adjusted to the lowest possible output. Any significant current will stress them and shorten their already brief lifespan.

Jump risk

Yes

They are exceptional jumpers capable of escaping through the smallest gaps. A tight, perfectly fitted lid is an absolute requirement. Ensure no gaps exist around airline tubing or heater cables.

Reproduction

Substrate spawner

A classic annual species whose eggs require a dry incubation period to develop. They spawn daily, burying their eggs in a layer of peat moss provided by the aquarist. The peat must be collected, dried to a damp state, and stored for several months before rewetting to induce hatching.

Compatibility & tankmates

Species only

Best kept strictly in a species-only tank to focus on their unique lifecycle and breeding. They are highly specialized and easily outcompeted for food by faster fish. Other species will also likely eat their precious eggs.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

They stay primarily in the lower to middle sections of the aquarium. They are constantly inspecting the substrate to find food and optimal spawning spots. A dark, soft substrate is highly recommended.