Aphyosemion Gardneri 3.5cm

Aphyosemion Gardneri

The Aphyosemion Gardneri has basically become the mascot for all killifish, they are arguably one of the best-coloured species in the family. This is 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. They are however incredibly vibrant and contrasting fish with fun personalities and are great for smaller aquariums as well. Gardneri killifish are also regarded to be 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. 

Gardneri killifish is most recognisable for their colouration and saying they are a living rainbow is an understatement. The body colour of this fish is an array of blues and greens with a light-coloured underbelly. On top of this base colour, they have bright red spots and striations all across the body from head to tail and their contrasting colours don’t end there. The fins on the Gardneri killifish are rimmed with a bright sulphuric yellow and seeing these fish in person is just stunning, to say the least. Unfortunately, the rainbow colours are just described as exclusive to male killifish. 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 are far more vibrant in colour compared to females and also tend to be larger in size. Females tend to be a more earthy colour with minimal patterning. Gardneri killifish 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 Aphyosemion Gardneri

The Gardneri 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. Gardneri 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 Gardneri is great to include in community aquariums with other similar-sized and tempered fish.

 
Usually Compatible

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

Sometimes Compatible

Larger community fish like angelfish can stress out the Gardneri 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 Gardneri killifish. 

Feeding your Aphyosemion Gardneri

Gardneri 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, it ensures that they have optimal nutrition.