Aphyosemion cognatum Care Guide
Aphyosemion cognatum is a small non-annual killifish from the Congo basin, suited to soft, warm, well-planted aquaria.
Overview
Aphyosemion cognatum is a small Central African killifish of the family Nothobranchiidae. FishBase records it at up to 5.0 cm total length and states it is not a seasonal killifish and is easy to maintain in the aquarium.
Taxonomy
- Family: Nothobranchiidae
- Genus: Aphyosemion
- Scientific name: Aphyosemion cognatum
Habitat
FishBase places the species in the lower and middle Congo River basin in the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where it occurs in brooks, swamps and rainforest pools.
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 micropredator. In the aquarium it is fed small live and frozen invertebrates appropriate to its small mouth.
Compatibility
A peaceful top-dwelling species best kept in calm, dimly lit tanks with small, non-aggressive companions. A tight cover is recommended, as killifish are prone to jumping.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2009), per FishBase.