Paska's Blue-eye (Pseudomugil paskai) Care Guide
Pseudomugil paskai is a small blue-eye from rainforest creeks of the upper Fly River system in Papua New Guinea, assessed as Critically Endangered.
Overview
Pseudomugil paskai, Paska's blue-eye, is a small fish of the family Pseudomugilidae, described in 1986 by Allen and Ivantsoff. FishBase lists a maximum of about 3 cm standard length. Males display red-orange flushes in the fins.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pseudomugilidae
- Genus: Pseudomugil
- Scientific name: Pseudomugil paskai
Habitat
FishBase records the species from Papua New Guinea, known only from small creeks near Kiunga in the upper Fly River system, where it inhabits rainforest streams with abundant aquatic vegetation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 4-15 °dGH
- School size: 8 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 2-3 years
Diet
FishBase places the species at a trophic level of about 3.2, indicating a micro-predatory diet. In aquaria it requires 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 small, calm fish such as chili rasboras and pygmy corydoras; avoid boisterous species.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered (assessed 2020), reflecting its very restricted known range.