Mirabilis Killifish

Fundulopanchax mirabilis

Also known as Mirabilis Panchax

Animalia›Chordata›Cyprinodontiformes›Nothobranchiidae

Fundulopanchax mirabilis, commonly known as the Mirabilis Killifish, is a stunning West African annual killifish prized for its vibrant coloration and relatively manageable care requirements. Males display brilliant blue and red patterns with distinctive fin extensions, making them highly sought after by killifish enthusiasts. These fish are best kept in species-specific or carefully selected community setups due to their predatory nature toward smaller fish.

Where it's from

Native to the Cross, Ndian and Wouri river basins

Nigeria and Cameroon

At a glance

Size: 2.5 in; 6 cm
Min tank: 20 gal; 76 L
Temp: 72–75°F; 22–24°C
pH: 6.0-7.0
GH: 71–143 ppm; 4–8 dGH
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Swims: Top
Lifespan: 1-2 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Mirabilis Killifish are carnivorous and require high-quality live or frozen foods including small insects, mosquito larvae, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Feed small portions 1-2 times daily, offering only what they can consume in a few minutes. They may occasionally accept high-quality micro pellets but prefer live foods for optimal coloration and health.

Behavior

These killifish are active swimmers that prefer densely planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Males are territorial and may display aggressive behavior toward each other and smaller fish, making them best kept singly or in pairs with careful observation. They are surface feeders and exhibit fascinating hunting behaviors, darting quickly to capture prey.

Breeding

Mirabilis Killifish are annual killifish that breed in peat moss or fine sand substrates, with eggs requiring a drying period of several weeks to months before rehydration triggers hatching. Breeding is moderately difficult and requires dedicated setup with separate breeding tanks, careful water parameter management, and patience during the egg incubation phase. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially.

Tank mates

See all 6

Neon Tetra

May be predated upon; only suitable in larger tanks with dense vegetation

caution

Cardinal Tetra

Risk of predation; requires careful monitoring

caution

Otocinclus

Bottom dweller that avoids competition; peaceful coexistence possible

good

Amano Shrimp

May be hunted; best in heavily planted tanks

caution

Java Fern

Provides essential cover and does not interfere with fish

excellent

Fits a 20-gallon tank

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).