Red Neon Blue-eye (Pseudomugil luminatus) Care Guide
Pseudomugil luminatus is a tiny blue-eye described in 2016 from swamps near Timika in Papua, Indonesia, with red-orange males and neon-blue markings.
Overview
Pseudomugil luminatus, the red neon blue-eye, is a very small fish of the family Pseudomugilidae. It was formally described in 2016 by Allen, Unmack and Hadiaty. FishBase records males to about 1.9 cm standard length. Males are yellowish to reddish with a neon-blue stripe along the uppermost body and white to yellow fin tips.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pseudomugilidae
- Genus: Pseudomugil
- Scientific name: Pseudomugil luminatus
Habitat
Wikipedia and FishBase record the species from swamps in the vicinity of Timika in Papua Province, Indonesia, in southern New Guinea.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- GH: 6-15 °dGH
- School size: 8 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 2-3 years
Diet
FishBase places the species at a trophic level of about 3.1, indicating a micro-predatory diet. In aquaria it requires very small foods such as micro-worms, baby brine shrimp, fine frozen items and small dry foods.
Compatibility
A peaceful, top-dwelling nano species kept in groups of eight or more. Suitable tankmates include other tiny, calm species such as chili rasboras and pygmy corydoras; avoid boisterous fish.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (assessed 2019, criterion B1ab(iii)), reflecting its very restricted range.