Gabon Jewelfish - Aphyosemion cyanostictum Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Gabon Jewelfish (Aphyosemion cyanostictum) is a captivating and visually striking species that has gained popularity among dedicated fishkeepers specializing in the care and breeding of Killifish. Renowned for its unique blue-spotted appearance, peaceful temperament, and manageable care requirements, the Gabon Jewelfish is a sought-after choice for both novice and experienced aquarists alike.
While an ideal setup would involve housing the Gabon Jewelfish in a species-only aquarium, they can also coexist with other small to medium-sized peaceful fish within a well-planned community tank. Compatible tankmates may include smaller Barbs, Tetras, Rasboras, Dwarf Cichlids, Dwarf Gouramis, as well as Corydoras and smaller Plecos. However, it is advisable to exercise caution when considering larger, aggressive, or boisterous species, as they may outcompete the Gabon Jewelfish for food resources.
To ensure optimal conditions for the Gabon Jewelfish, it is recommended to maintain a soft water aquarium with an abundance of plants and the inclusion of bogwood. Employing peat filtration is highly advantageous, while the water movement should be gentle, replicating the slow-moving waters that these fish naturally inhabit in the wild. Floating plants can offer appreciated surface cover, and it is crucial to ensure that the aquarium has a securely fitting lid, as the Gabon Jewelfish possesses impressive jumping capabilities.
The Gabon Jewelfish showcases a slender and elongated body shape with slight compression. Typically, the body exhibits a brownish-red colouration embellished with iridescent green or blue highlights. This species is distinguished by its characteristic pattern of small blue or green spots that adorn the body, thus lending it the common name of "Jewelfish." The spots vary in shape and size, exhibiting variations in colour intensity based on lighting conditions. Notably, the dorsal fins are prominent and share the body's colouration and spotted patterning, while the pelvic fins do not display these distinctive spots.
Gabon Jewelfish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Gabon Jewelfish is a relatively straightforward task. Males exhibit a more vibrant and pronounced colouration compared to females, adorned with a striking display of hues. Additionally, their dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are notably longer and more elaborate. In contrast, females display a paler colouration and lack the intricate patterning characteristic of their male counterparts. By observing these distinct physical attributes, one can easily discern between the male and female Gabon Jewelfish.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Aphyosemion cyanostictum |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1968 |
| Other Names | Blue-Spotted Killifish |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Family | Nothobranchiidae |
| Genus | Aphyosemion |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 3 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 5.5 - 6.5 |
| GH | 2 - 12 |
| ℉ | 77 - 95 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 25 - 35 |
Natural Habitat
The Gabon Jewelfish is indigenous to the Ivindo river drainage system, located between Ovan and Bélinga in northern Gabon, within the Republic of the Congo in Africa. These distinctive Killifish are specifically adapted to thrive in the unique ecological niche of small, predominantly swampy brooks within the lush rainforest habitat.
Breeding
Breeding Gabon Jewelfish can be accomplished with relative ease. While a pair can be spawned in an aquarium, it is advisable to breed them in trios to optimize success, although the yield may be slightly lower due to potential egg consumption by non-spawning fish. Filtration is not commonly used in killifish breeding setups, but the inclusion of a small, air-powered sponge filter is recommended to prevent water stagnation. To create an ideal breeding environment, maintain slightly acidic water with a slightly elevated temperature and subdued lighting.
Prior to breeding, it is essential to condition the fish with a varied diet comprising live and frozen foods. Males and females should be separated and placed in separate tanks. From this selection, choose the best male and the fattest female to introduce into the spawning tank. This approach allows females to recover between spawnings. Spawning will occur near the water's surface, with females depositing one egg at a time on spawning mops or vegetation secured by a sticky thread. Females may lay anywhere from 20 to 50 eggs daily over several weeks. With sufficient feeding, the adults will not prey on the eggs, allowing them to remain in the breeding tank until removal becomes necessary.
Should the desire arise to transfer the eggs to a separate raising tank, gently hand-picking them from the mops or plants is recommended. Adding methylene blue to the raising tank can help prevent fungal growth on the eggs. If any eggs develop fungus, prompt removal with a pipette is crucial to prevent the spread to other eggs. With optimal water conditions and proper conditioning, spawning should proceed smoothly. While it is possible to leave the eggs in the aquarium to hatch with the parents, it is expected that some may be consumed. To maximize fry yield, removing the eggs is advisable. Approximately 10 to 20 eggs are deposited daily for a span of two weeks, and their gentle removal upon detection is recommended.
For incubation, there are two viable methods. If incubating in water, the eggs can be transferred to a small aquarium or a container filled with water from the spawning tank. Adding a few drops of methylene blue to the container aids in maintaining the eggs' condition. It is best to keep the container in darkness, as exposure to light can be detrimental to the eggs. Daily monitoring for fungus-infected eggs is necessary, with prompt removal using a pipette as soon as they are noticed.
Alternatively, if incubating on peat moss, place the eggs in a dark and warm environment for approximately 18 days. Following this period, the eggs will be ready to hatch. Inducing hatching can typically be achieved by transferring the eggs to the raising aquarium, where the moisture triggers the hatching process. If needed, gentle blowing into the water through a piece of airline or straw can serve as a stimulus for hatching.
Diet & Feeding
In the home aquarium, Gabon Jewelfish readily accept a variety of high-quality dried foods, such as granules, flakes, and sinking pellets. These nutritionally balanced food products have been specifically formulated to meet the dietary requirements and promote the overall health of these fish. While dried foods alone can sustain their nutritional needs, incorporating additional foodstuffs like live, frozen, and freeze-dried options such as mini bloodworms, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week can offer supplementary benefits for their well-being. It is noteworthy that Gabon Jewelfish are omnivorous in the wild, and while most commercial fish foods include vegetable matter, supplementing their diet with blanched vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and zucchini can further enhance their nutritional variety. It is crucial to avoid overfeeding and promptly remove any uneaten food to maintain optimal water quality and prevent unnecessary waste accumulation.
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