Australe Killifish (Pair)

Australe Killifish (Lyretail Killifish)

The Australe Killifish (Aphyosemion australe), also known as the Golden Lyretail Killifish, is a beautifully coloured and peaceful freshwater species prized for its flowing fins and vibrant body patterns. Native to shaded, slow-moving freshwater streams and swamps in Gabon and the Congo Basin, this killifish is ideal for nano and planted aquariums. With proper care, they’re hardy, easy to breed, and a striking choice for peaceful community tanks or species-only displays.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Grows up to 5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches) in length.
• Coloration: Comes in a variety of colour forms—wild-type (golden brown with red spots), gold (bright yellow or orange), and chocolate. Males have brighter colours and more dramatic finnage.
• Fins: Males have extended lyre-shaped tail and long dorsal/anal fins. Females are smaller with rounded fins and less vibrant colours.
• Shape: Slender, torpedo-shaped body with slightly upturned mouth suited for surface feeding.

Behaviour:

• Temperament: Peaceful and shy. Best kept in pairs or small harems (1 male to 2–3 females) to reduce male aggression.
• Activity Level: Active but not overly energetic. Males display frequently and court females with elegant fin displays.
• Community Behaviour: Can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish. Avoid fast or fin-nipping species.

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 litres (5 gallons) for a pair. Larger tanks offer better stability and more room for social groups.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F)
  • pH: 5.5 to 7.0 (soft, slightly acidic water)
  • Hardness: 1–8 dGH
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate and Decorations: Use dark sand or fine gravel. Add driftwood, leaf litter, and dense plant cover (especially floating plants) to provide shade and hiding spaces.
  • Lighting: Low to moderate lighting brings out their colours and keeps them comfortable.
  • Filtration: Gentle sponge filtration is ideal. Avoid strong current. Perform weekly water changes of 15–25%.

Diet:

Australe Killifish are micropredators and thrive on a varied, protein-rich diet:

• Live Foods: Daphnia, baby brine shrimp, micro-worms, and mosquito larvae are ideal.
• Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, cyclops, and small brine shrimp are accepted readily.
• Dry Foods: May accept crushed flakes or micro-pellets, but not all individuals will take them. Live or frozen foods are preferred for colour and conditioning.

Tankmates:

Due to their peaceful nature, tankmates must be chosen carefully:

• Suitable Companions: Ember tetras, small rasboras, pygmy corydoras, peaceful shrimp (e.g. Amano), and other small killifish or pencilfish.
• Avoid: Fast-swimming or aggressive fish, large cichlids, or anything prone to fin-nipping.

Breeding:

Australe Killifish are egg layers and relatively easy to breed in the home aquarium:

• Breeding Setup: Use a small breeding tank with soft water and a spawning mop or fine-leafed plants. Lower lighting helps encourage spawning.
• Spawning Behaviour: Males display and lead females to spawning mops, where they deposit adhesive eggs. Eggs hatch in 10–14 days depending on temperature.
• Fry Care: Remove eggs or parents after spawning. Feed fry infusoria, green water, or liquid fry food until they are large enough for baby brine shrimp.

Special Considerations:

• Jumping Risk: Like many killifish, Australe Killifish are skilled jumpers. Keep a tight-fitting lid or floating plants to reduce risk.
• Short Lifespan: Most live 2–3 years. Regular breeding can help maintain a colony over time.
• Low Stress: Provide plenty of cover and limit tank disturbances to prevent shy behaviour or colour fading.