INDEX
KILLIFISH
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THE FISH
Killifish (Poropanchax luxophthalmus)
(Lamp-Eye Panchax)
Poropanchax luxophthalmus
| HABITS |
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This small West African species has gone through a few name changes recently, but would be recognised by most as Aplocheilichthys macrophthalmus. There are 2 subspecies under the current name: luxophthalmus luxophthalmus from Benin, Cameroon, Nigeria and Togo; and luxophthalmus hannerzi found only in Nigeria. This is a fairly peaceful shoaling fish that prefers water movement. A group of them would make a fine addition to any small species community aquarium. The water requirements are around neutral (pH 6.8 7.3) with temperatures between 72ºF and 79ºF.
Text supplied by the BKA for more information about killifish, visit the British Killifish Association website at www.bka.org.uk
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| SIZE |
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This fish grows up to 4 cm, but will breed at half this size.
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| FOOD |
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These fish prefer small live food, but will accept frozen or quality freeze dried foods. See recommended sera Foods below,
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FOOD
TYPES |
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| SEXING |
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Males have light blue iridescent areas on their bodies and fins and red dots on the tail. Females are plainer and have shorter, more rounded, colourless fins. Both sexes have the bright blue 'lamp-eye'.
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| BREEDING |
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Since these are shoaling fish, it is better to keep them in a 3 gallon aquarium that is furnished with fine leafed plants and/or breeding mops with water temperatures between 76ºF and 79ºF. They should be bred in a small group of at least 3 pairs. The eggs are attached to the plants or mops by adhesive threads. The tiny fry hatch in 10-14 days and initially require the smallest live food available, e.g., microworm. Some authorities say that the fry are sensitive to infusoria and therefore it should not be considered suitable food.
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The Fish
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