Gardneri Killifish care guide
Gardneri Killifish (Fundulopanchax gardneri) — minimum tank 40 L, temperature 22-26 °C, pH 6-7.5.
Overview
Gardner’s Killifish (Fundulopanchax gardneri) is a small West African killifish from forest pools and streams. Mature males display vivid red and blue body patterns and yellow-edged fins, with considerable variation among populations.
Taxonomy
- Family: Nothobranchiidae
- Genus: Fundulopanchax
- Scientific name: Fundulopanchax gardneri
- Common synonyms: Steel Blue Killifish
Habitat
Native to small streams, swamps and seasonal pools in southern Nigeria and western Cameroon, in soft, acidic water shaded by forest canopy and rich in leaf litter.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L (10.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 5-7 cm
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 2-4 years
Diet
A micro-carnivore that prefers small live or frozen foods (daphnia, cyclops, mosquito larvae, baby brine shrimp). Will also accept high-quality micro-pellets.
Compatibility
Best kept in species-only setups, either as a pair or as a single male with several females. Compatible with small, calm peaceful companions in a heavily planted tank; avoid mixing with active or fin-nipping species.
Breeding
A non-annual egg-depositor that places adhesive eggs on plants or spawning mops. Eggs incubate for around 14-21 days; some populations can be "store-dried" briefly without harm.