Red-Striped Killifish

Aphyosemion striatum

Also known as Five-Banded Killifish

Animalia›Chordata›Cyprinodontiformes›Nothobranchiidae

The Red-Striped Killifish is a small, colorful West African killifish known for its distinctive red striping pattern and peaceful temperament. These fish are ideal for planted nano aquariums and make excellent choices for experienced aquarists interested in killifish breeding. They display fascinating courtship behaviors and are relatively hardy once acclimated to proper water conditions.

Where it's from

Native to the Congo, Ogooue, Rio Mbridge and Shiloango river basins

Congo - Kinshasa, Gabon and Angola

At a glance

Size: 1.5 in; 4 cm
Min tank: 10 gal; 38 L
Temp: 68–75°F; 20–24°C
pH: 6.0-7.0
GH: 71–143 ppm; 4–8 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Top
Lifespan: 1-2 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

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

Behavior

These killifish are peaceful and relatively sedentary, spending much of their time in the middle water column and among plants. Males display vibrant colors and may engage in gentle fin displays, while females are more subdued. They are not aggressive toward other peaceful species but may nip at very small fry.

Breeding

Red-Striped Killifish are annual killifish that breed readily in captivity, making them popular among killifish enthusiasts. Breeding requires slightly cooler temperatures (20-22°C), dense vegetation or spawning mops, and frequent water changes. Eggs can be collected and incubated separately, with fry emerging after 2-3 weeks.

Tank mates

See all 6

Neon Tetra

Similar size and peaceful temperament, though killifish may occasionally nip at very small fish

good

Ember Tetra

Small, peaceful community fish that share similar water parameter preferences

good

Least Rasbora

Comparable size and peaceful nature, ideal nano tank companion

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Larger shrimp that won't be predated upon; helps maintain tank cleanliness

good

Java Moss

Provides essential cover and spawning substrate for breeding killifish

excellent

Fits a 10-gallon tank Peaceful

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Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date.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).