INDEX
KILLIFISH
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THE FISH
Killifish (A. lineatus)
Aplocheilus lineatus
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These predatory fish from southern India spend most of their time at the water's surface and should only be kept with other large, sturdy species with no long flowing fins. Due to their large size, A. lineatus can do a lot of damage to each other or tankmates that they take a dislike to, so keep an eye on them in the community aquarium. Guppies and small Tetras would be considered a light snack! Water conditions aren't critical; slightly acid to neutral preferred (pH 6.5 - 7.0) with temperatures between 72ºF and 80ºF. There is a 'Gold' form, commonly known as Golden Wonder, which has become very popular. Males have stronger colouration and longer, more pointed dorsal and anal fins, while females have a number of vertical black stripes on their rear flanks. As with most killifish, this species can jump and the bigger they are, the further they can leap.
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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Up to 15 cm, will spawn at half this size.
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| FOOD |
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Just about anything that will fit in their considerable mouths! Though liveor frozen food is their favourite, sera San is an example of dried food which they will happily accept.See recommended sera Foods below,
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FOOD
TYPES |
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| SEXING |
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Male is more brightly coloured.
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| BREEDING |
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A well furnished breeding tank of about 6 gallons containing water as described above but in the upper temperature range and a pair or trio (1 male and 2 females) should see results. There are reports that a well-lit tank may also induce spawning. The transparent eggs, which are between 1.5 mm and 2 mm in diameter, will be laid in the tops of floating or fine-leafed plants or breeding mops, should be transplanted to a separate tank with 5cm depth of water from the parents' tank as the adults will devour their offspring. The fry should emerge in 12 to 14 days and will immediately take newly hatched brine shrimp and some finely powdered foods (e.g. sera Micron).
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The Fish
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