Aphyosemion alpha

Family: Nothobrachiidae

Distribution: Aphyosemion alpha is an African species which is only known from Cape Esterias, northwestern Gabon.  It likes to swim in clear waters over sand and is generally found in shady forest creeks.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 20 – 24°C (68 – 75°F)

Hardness: 0 – 4 dH (in nature)

Description: Aphyosemion alpha is certainly on the larger scale of killifish, measuring in at a maximum length of 43 cm.  Males have a bold blue colouration and a red alpha-lie signature on and behind their opercle, which gives the species its name.  Aphyosemion alpha has no dorsal spine, 12 -13 dorsal soft rays, no anal spines, 13 – 15 anal soft rays and 24 – 25 vetebrae.

Diet: Killifish should generally be fed a combination of live and flake food. Examples may include small live foods such as shrimp and bloodworm.  You can also indulge this species with vegetables – lettuce and spinach tend to be well received – and it may take a few bites from your plants.  It is very important to keep algae as a staple diet; it is required to keep the fish in good health.

Breeding: This species is very hard to breed in an aquarium environment, and may produce more males than females.  Success has been had in pairing a male with two females.  Before breeding, in this case, females were kept separately and fed heavy, meaty foods.  This should only be attempted by experienced hobbyists.

Comments: This species is large and will require a decent size tank.  Provide it with plants and plenty of swimming space to simulate its natural environment.

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