Aphyosemion bivittatum Care Guide

Aphyosemion bivittatum is a non-annual killifish from coastal rainforest brooks of Nigeria and Cameroon, requiring soft, warm water.

Overview

Aphyosemion bivittatum is a small West African killifish of the family Nothobranchiidae. FishBase records it at up to 5.0 cm total length and notes it is not a seasonal killifish but is considered difficult to maintain in the aquarium.

Taxonomy

• Family: Nothobranchiidae
• Genus: Aphyosemion
• Scientific name: Aphyosemion bivittatum

Habitat

FishBase reports the species from southeastern Nigeria and southwestern Cameroon, where it is restricted to brooks in coastal rainforest with calcium-containing soils.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 40 L (about 11 gal)
• Temperature: 22-25 °C (72-77 °F)
• pH: 5.5-7.0
• GH: 1-8 °dGH
• Lifespan: 2-3 years

Diet

A carnivorous surface and mid-water micropredator that takes small live and frozen foods in the aquarium.

Compatibility

A peaceful species best kept in quiet, well-planted tanks with small companions. A tight-fitting cover is advised, since this genus is prone to jumping.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2019), per FishBase.