FishChecker

The Golden Lyretail Killifish (Aphyosemion australe) is a dazzling and highly sought-after species among killifish enthusiasts, renowned for its striking beauty and relatively peaceful nature. Originating from West Africa, primarily in Gabon and Congo, these captivating fish inhabit slow-moving streams, swamps, and densely vegetated areas.Males are the true showstoppers, boasting a vibrant golden-yellow to orange body adorned with iridescent blue or red spots, culminating in an exquisitely elongated 'lyretail' fin that often features intricate patterns of red, blue, and yellow banding. The dorsal and anal fins are equally ornate, making them truly mesmerizing to behold. Females, while more subtly colored with a muted yellow-brown body, still possess an understated charm.Growing to a modest size of about 2 to 2.5 inches (5-6 cm), Golden Lyretail Killifish are ideal inhabitants for well-planted nano tanks or peaceful community aquariums. They thrive in soft to medium-hard water with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) and a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C). A densely planted environment with floating plants, driftwood, and leaf litter is crucial, as it mimics their natural habitat, provides ample hiding spots, and helps diffuse light, which they appreciate.While generally peaceful, males may display some territoriality towards each other, especially during breeding, but serious harm is rare if adequate space and cover are provided. They are best kept in pairs or trios (one male to two females) or in a larger group with a favorable male-to-female ratio. Compatible tankmates include other small, peaceful species like dwarf rasboras, small tetras, and peaceful bottom-dwellers such as Otocinclus catfish or dwarf Corydoras.Avoid keeping them with boisterous or fin-nipping species.Their diet should be varied, consisting primarily of high-quality live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and white worms. They will also readily accept good quality flake or micro-pellet foods designed for small carnivores. Golden Lyretail Killifish are prolific egg-layers and are relatively easy to breed in a dedicated setup, often laying their eggs on spawning mops or fine-leaved plants. With their stunning coloration, manageable size, and engaging behaviors, the Golden Lyretail Killifish offers a rewarding experience for aquarists looking for a truly beautiful and elegant centerpiece fish.

Peaceful but will eat small shrimp/fry.