Killifish have divided into at least 10 families and at least 65 genres, many of them with more than 100 species. We have a very large family, globally distributed and with the ability to adapt to the most diverse climates. A few species have adapted to living in the sea and in some large lakes with high concentrations of dissolved salts. Adapting to such diverse biotopes allowed them to overcome one of the unavoidable conditions for other fish.
That is why this species manages to ensure the survival of the species despite the absence of water in its environment. The members of this family are the only ones that can produce eggs capable of withstanding a drought of up to two years or more, depending on the species. This phenomenon is what allowed the worldwide dissemination of the Killifish. The Killifish are fish that have a greater color within the species of freshwater, and some of them rival in beauty with the fish of the coral reefs.
Characteristics of Killifish
The scientific name of the Killifish is Aphyosemion Australe. The Killifish is the most interesting and curious species. They are exclusive fish, hard to find, and with a world of true fans about them. There is a great variety of species and diversities that inhabit all over the world except in Oceania, North Asia, and Northwest North America. Although they inhabit regions with an intertropical environment you can also find species in cold and moderate climates.
They live in unstable natural environments, in aquatic environments such as ponds, streams, reservoirs, and other places of that nature. The majority of the body of the Killifish has a cylindrical shape. The size of the fish is between 3 and 7 centimeters, although there are also smaller and larger species. Everyone has a small mouth and tiny teeth in the jaws and pharynx. The head is usually slightly flat in the upper area.
The difference between males and females is appreciable, especially in size and color. The males are larger than the females and look good and have strong in colors. While the female is smaller, looks more pale and muted colors. They usually live in small populations composed of several females and a dominant male that does not allow the existence of other males that can be seen as competition.
The average life of this species is between 1 to 3 years. Even so, this species is very complicated to obtain, and in some places, it is beginning to be considered in danger of extinction. Those breeders who want to maintain this species are essential to take care of it properly.
Feeding
Killifish are insectivores. They must have a very varied diet, they like to feed a couple of times a day with live food. The feeding can be larvae, insects, mosquitoes, fruit flies, micro-worms, earthworms, etc. But even if it is not the favorite, the breeder should also give them some porridge with vegetables so that they have a varied diet. You may also like to read goldfish.
Reproduction
If someone wants to raise these fish and use them for their reproduction, they should give up having only one of these fish in an aquarium coexisting with other fish. This is because these fish, in addition to being aggressive, should have their space to carry out the reproduction correctly. An acceptable alternative is to select an aquarium in which they can breed and reproduce themselves.
While knowing that they are going to try to promote the precise reproduction and breeding of these fish, collecting their eggs and reproducing them later. It should also be noted that the power of an impeccable reproduction of the Killifish is difficult since most of its species show disadvantages of sterility. In the same way, they have problems with the number between males and females and of particular obligations with water.
Behavior
Most of the Killifish species are annual, that is, they usually live only one year. For example the subspecies Aphyosemion lives for a very short time. Because it lives in a dry season and it is impossible for it to survive longer. Many of these fish are found in the Gulf of Guinea. And others have moved further into the territory so the water already has very low amounts of salt. You may also like to read Rainbowfish
These fish will also vary their behavior in reproduction, the search for food, and in general, to ensure the survival of their species. It is a species that is territorial so they protect its territory. Defending and in general acting always guided by the instinct of survival more primary. Becoming more violent with it or with other species. In addition, it should be noted that the behaviors will also vary according to whether they are annual Killifish, semi-annual Killifish, or non-annual Killifish.
Aquarius
The Killifish do not need aquariums of large dimensions, a volume of 10 or 15 liters is enough for a couple or a trio. In general, the aquarium should be longer and wider than high, and preferably glass. It is advisable that it be provided with a lid, especially in the case of jumping species. Some trunks and aquatic plants can be included as a refuge, bearing in mind that they must be resistant.
The aquarium should be equipped with a fluorescent lamp and a box filter. In addition, the temperature of the aquarium should be maintained between 18 and 26 degrees Celsius. And the Ph should be rather neutral, and be between 5.5 and 7. It is important that the water does not contain chlorine.
To eliminate it, the breeder can leave the water resting for at least 4 days. In one or more containers until the chlorine evaporates. For good maintenance of Killifish, it is necessary to change the water habitually to reduce waste and bacteria. A change can be made weekly, emptying at least 50% of the aquarium water with a siphon and filling it again with clean water without chlorine.
FAQ
Are killifish good for beginners?
Yes, killifish can make a great choice for beginner fish keepers. They are hardy and relatively easy to care for, and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns that make them both beautiful and interesting to observe.
Are killifish good with other fish?
Yes, killifish can be kept with other fish in a home aquarium. They are generally peaceful and do not bother other fish, though they may eat smaller tankmates such as neon tetras. When choosing tankmates for killifish, it is important to select species that will thrive in the same water conditions and have similar temperament. Good tankmates include danios, rasboras, barbs, small catfish like Corydoras, and gouramis. It is also important to ensure that the tank is large enough to accommodate all of the fish comfortably – for example, a group of five killifish would require at least a 30-gallon aquarium. With proper care and selection of compatible tankmates, killifish can make a great addition to any home aquarium.
How many killifish should be kept together?
The number of killifish that should be kept together depends on the species and size of the fish, as well as the size of the tank. Generally, it is best to keep no more than two or three killifish in a tank. If you have a larger tank, you can keep up to five to six killifish. It is also important to make sure that each fish has enough space to move around comfortably. If there are too many fish in one tank, they may become stressed and aggressive towards one another.
Why are they called killifish?
Killifish are a type of fish that belong to the Cyprinodontiformes family. The name “killifish” is derived from the Dutch word “kil,” which means “ditch.” This refers to the fact that killifish typically inhabit shallow, temporary waters such as ditches and ponds. These fish live in areas with fluctuating water levels, so they have adapted to survive in water for short periods of time and then move on when the water dries up. They also have specially-adapted eggs that can survive in dry conditions until the next rainy season arrives. This adaptation allows them to take advantage of temporary bodies of water and reproduce quickly when conditions are favorable.
Conclusion
If you want to know more about killifish, take a look at this guide. It has been created for people who are interested in the scientific study of fish and aquatic evolution. You will find everything you need to know about the different types of killifish, their diet, and habits as well as examples from around the world where they can be found. We hope that it helps you understand these fascinating creatures better!
As a Reference: Wikipedia
