Aphyosemion Poliaki 4cm

Polikai - Aphyosemion
 

The Aphyosemion Polikai is a great, simplistic nano centrepiece fish for a blackwater or planted aquarium and is a uniquely coloured species in the killifish family. This is a pretty easy to care for fish but they can be sensitive to parameter swings so it would be better to have this species on the bucket list once there is a decent level of experience gained with aquarium keeping. These are also regarded to be an annual killifish in the wild meaning their entire lifecycle is completed in 1 year however in captivity they can live as long as 2 years. Due to their unconventionally short and seasonal lifespan, they also make for a great breeding project as well for aquarium fish breeders that are looking for the next fun project. 

Polikai killifish is most recognisable for its colouration and reserved but shimmering look compared to other species. They aren’t as dark as a chocolate killifish but aren’t as bright as a gardeneri so they are a really great in-between. The base colour of this killifish is a light grey-brown colour that has highlights of copper orange that present itself through the scales. These can also throw hints of blue and yellow. The cheek plate also carries some mild red lines which are contrasted by a toxic green through the tips of the fins. These killifish are tropical species that will thrive in a temperature range between 24 - 26 degrees and will prefer softer water with a PH of 6.0-7.0.  

Breeding these fish is relatively easy as males and females can be easily distinguished. Males tend to be larger in size. Females will have minimal patterning and no streamer-like extensions. These killifsh are an egg scattering fish and breeders will usually make spawning mops which are placed into the tank to capture the eggs. Females will deposit eggs into these mops as it resembles a fine-leafed plant. The mop can then be removed and placed into a dedicated breeding tank from where the fry can be raised.   

Tank Recommendations for your Polikai - Aphyosemion

The Polikai killifish only reaches around 6 cm and a pair can be kept in an aquarium of 40 litres. As these fish are almost exclusively top-dwelling fish, the choice of substrate or hardscape is not a major consideration. They will love a well-planted aquarium but the main must is a well-fitting lid since these fish are notorious jumpers. Australe killifish come from slow-moving waters in the wild and it is best to avoid high-flow aquariums for them. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

Due to their extremely peaceful behaviour, Aphyosemion Polikai is great to include in community aquariums with other similar-sized and tempered fish.

 
Usually Compatible

Khuli loach, pygmy corydoras, maculata rasboras, neon tetras, celestial pearl danios, and other nano species.  

Sometimes Compatible

Larger community fish like angelfish can stress out the austral killifish as these are delicate. It would be ideal to just avoid any species which would show even slight territorial behaviour or have the risk of being fin-nipping. 

Rarely Compatible

Larger South American cichlids both aggressive and peaceful can easily outcompete or predate the Polikai killifish. 

Feeding your Polikai - Aphyosemion

Polikai killifish will take to aquarium foods very easily. They will take a wide range of floating pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Giving them a varied diet of some protein-rich micro pellets along with baby brine shrimp will ensure that they have optimal health.