Red-Striped Killifish

Aphyosemion striatum

📍 West Africa

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.

Size1.5"

Min Tank10g

peaceful

Zonemiddle

Care Guide

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

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

Anubias Nana

Hardy plant that creates shelter and doesn't require high lighting

excellent

Common Diseases

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects

Treatment

Gradually raise temperature to 26-28°C (79-82°F), perform daily 25% water changes, use aquarium salt or commercial ich treatment; maintain good water quality

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent water changes, remove any sharp decorations, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure proper tank maintenance

Velvet Disease (Oodinium)

Symptoms

Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, rapid breathing, loss of appetite, scratching behavior

Treatment

Increase aeration, raise temperature slightly to 24-26°C (75-79°F), perform daily water changes, use copper-free velvet treatment; dim lighting may help

Bacterial Infection

Symptoms

Open sores, cloudy eyes, swollen abdomen, torn fins, lethargy

Treatment

Perform frequent water changes to improve water quality, isolate affected fish if possible, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication; maintain pristine tank conditions