Gardneri Blue Killifish (Fundulopanchax gardneri) – Hardy Freshwater Fish for Planted Tanks – Brightly Colored, Peaceful Community Fish
Fundulopanchax gardneri
The Gardneri Blue Killifish (Fundulopanchax gardneri), also known as the Steel-Blue Killifish, is a strikingly beautiful and hardy freshwater fish prized for its vibrant colors and easy care. These killifish display a stunning palette of electric blue, red, and gold markings that make them a captivating addition to any aquarium. Known for their peaceful nature and adaptability, Gardneri Blue Killifish are ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists looking to add a splash of color to their tanks.
Key Features:
- Brilliant Coloration: With blue, red, and gold patterns on their fins and body, these killifish are among the most colorful freshwater species, bringing a bright and exotic touch to your aquarium.
- Easy to Care For: Gardneri Blue Killifish are hardy and adaptable, thriving in a variety of water conditions, making them suitable for both new and seasoned aquarists.
- Unique Behaviors: Known for their interesting behaviors and active personalities, these fish are engaging to watch and provide plenty of visual interest.
- Small and Peaceful: Growing to a manageable 2-3 inches in size, these killifish are peaceful community fish, well-suited for tanks with other non-aggressive species.
- Ideal for Breeding Projects: Gardneri Blue Killifish are popular among aquarists interested in breeding projects, as they readily breed in home aquariums under the right conditions.
Care Tips:
- Tank Size: These killifish do well in smaller aquariums, with a minimum of 10 gallons recommended for a pair or small group.
- Water Conditions: Gardneri Blue Killifish are adaptable, with an ideal temperature range of 70-80°F (21-27°C) and a pH of 6.0-7.5. They tolerate a range of conditions but prefer slightly acidic, well-filtered water.
- Substrate & Habitat: For the best display and health, provide them with live plants, driftwood, and hiding spots. These features mimic their natural habitat and offer them a sense of security.
- Diet: Gardneri Blue Killifish are omnivores with a preference for live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They also accept quality flakes and pellets, which can be supplemented with live food to enhance coloration.
- Breeding Tips: Known for their ease of breeding, Gardneri Blue Killifish spawn readily in home aquariums. Set up a breeding tank with soft water, and provide a spawning mop or fine-leaved plants where they can lay their eggs.
Tank Mates:
Gardneri Blue Killifish are generally peaceful and do well with other small, non-aggressive fish such as:
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Corydoras Catfish
- Shrimp (caution with fry, as they may prey on smaller shrimp)
- Other Small Killifish
It’s best to avoid keeping them with larger, aggressive species, as Gardneri Blue Killifish may become stressed in such environments.
Why Choose Gardneri Blue Killifish?
- Perfect for Beginners and Experts: Their hardiness and adaptability make Gardneri Blue Killifish suitable for beginners, while their beauty and ease of breeding appeal to experienced aquarists.
- Compact and Colorful: With their vibrant colors and compact size, these killifish brighten up smaller aquariums without requiring large amounts of space.
- Interesting Behavior: Observing their playful and engaging behaviors provides endless enjoyment, as these fish have plenty of personality.
- Ideal for Aquascaping: Their compatibility with live plants and aquascaped tanks allows them to thrive in well-planted setups and enhances their natural colors.
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Fundulopanchax gardneri
- Common Names: Gardneri Blue Killifish, Steel-Blue Killifish
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Max Size: 2-3 inches
- Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
- Diet: Omnivore (Live and Frozen Foods Preferred)
- Water Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
- Water pH: 6.0-7.5
- Origin: Native to freshwater streams in West Africa
Order Your Gardneri Blue Killifish Today!
Bring a splash of exotic beauty to your aquarium with Gardneri Blue Killifish. Their brilliant colors, peaceful nature, and manageable size make them a top choice for aquarists of all experience levels. Enhance your aquarium’s visual appeal and enjoy the vibrant charm of these killifish!