Family: Aplocheilidae
Distribution: This species of Epiplatys bifasciatus is situated in Africa, namely the Southwest coast, central, and upper East inland.
PH: 6-8 pH
Temperature: 24-25°C (76°F)
Hardness: 10dH
Description: The two horizontal stripes down the sides of the body of this killifish species gives Epiplatys bifasciatus bifasciatus its Latin name. Depending on the region, these stripes may be hard to detect. The base colours include brown, gold and grey; however regional differences may occur (including vivid greens and reds). Their fins are often clear but may occasionally have a black outline. They grow to a maximum size of 6cm, making them a ‘dwarf’ fish.
Reports have found that if the killifish are introduced into a single-species tank they become very shy and timid and spend most of their time hiding. When other, large, upper-dwellers are introduced, the killifish become animated and happily socialise.
Diet: The Epilatys bifasciatus bifasciatus thrive on flake food supplemented with some frozen livefood (bloodworms, preferably).
Breeding: Available information shows that whilst some people have no trouble when breeding, others find it almost impossible. Alterations in acidity, hardness and temperature – dependant on region – have shown good results, such as using rainwater in tanks.
Breeding adults can be left in a community tank; however the fry should be removed when spawned so it does not become a ‘snack’ for other fish. The fry grow best in planted tanks. They have a slow maturity rate, taking 7-8 months to reach adulthood.
Tip: As they are sensitive to sudden water changes, it is recommended that you perform gradual changes.
Comments: Epiplatys bifasciatus bifasciatus is extremely difficult to find in stores. Due to their water sensitivity, it is recommended for an aquarist with some experience, although an attentive beginner may have some luck.
Breeder should install a backlight to enable sexing, otherwise it may be difficult to tell males from females.
This fish is rare in the aquarium hobby and as such, the information is scanty. For these purposes, we have included general information pertaining to the killifish species.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: Whilst ‘the rules’ state that Epilatys bifasciatus bifasciatus should be kept in a single-species tank, reports find that they grow best and breed most often when kept in community tanks. They will live happily with Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platyand most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many other Killifish make great tank mates.
Originally posted 2010-03-31 05:57:27. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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