Poliaks Killifish - Aphyosemion poliaki : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Poliak's Killifish (Aphyosemion poliaki) is a small and captivating species of Killifish. With its vibrant colours and striking patterns, this fish has become a favourite among aquarium enthusiasts.
Poliak's Killifish are known for their peaceful demeanour, making them suitable for community aquariums alongside other peaceful species. However, avoiding housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping species is recommended to ensure their well-being.
Poliak's Killifish are relatively easy to care for and require a soft substrate such as sand or gravel. Providing ample hiding spots and dense vegetation within the aquarium is important, as it mimics their natural habitat and allows for territorial boundaries and breeding behaviours.
A well-maintained aquarium with regular water changes and efficient filtration is crucial for the overall health and longevity of Poliak's Killifish. The aquarium will also need a tight-fitting lid as these fish are expert jumpers.
Poliak's Killifish have a short, elongated body with a broad head and bright colours. Males are typically a bright yellow or orange, while females are usually a light grey-brown.
Poliaks Killifish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between the male and female Poliak's Killifish is a straightforward task due to the distinctive characteristics exhibited by each gender. Males of this species command attention with their slightly larger physique and remarkable fins, displaying an array of vivid tones encompassing shades of red, orange, blue, and black, embellished with intricate patterns. Conversely, females present a more understated appearance, marginally smaller size, with subdued colouration and diminutive fins.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Aphyosemion poliaki |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1991 |
| Other Names | Poliaki Killifish |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Family | Nothobranchiidae |
| Genus | Aphyosemion |
| Origins | Cameroon |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | 2 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 3 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| TDS | 18 – 143 |
| ℉ | 72 - 80 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The Poliak's Killifish originates from the Tamben region in Cameroon, Africa. These captivating species thrive within the dynamic environs of fast-flowing, high-altitude small mountain brooks, often characterised by the presence of overhanging vegetation. In their natural habitat, these brooks feature substrates predominantly composed of rocks, pebbles, and dark soil, derived from volcanic sand.
Breeding
Breeding Poliak's Killifish presents a captivating and rewarding venture for aquarists. To initiate the breeding process, it is advisable to introduce a pair or trio of fish into a designated small breeding tank furnished with spawning mops. Allowing them to reside in this environment for approximately one week will facilitate the deposition of eggs, which can be collected gradually over the following one to two weeks.
Providing live foods to breeding adults is recommended to optimise egg production. This dietary enhancement often correlates with increased egg yield. The small, round, transparent eggs can be gently harvested from the spawning mops and then incubated in water. Within a span of 10 to 20 days, these eggs will hatch, giving rise to the emergence of fry.
Alternatively, an alternative approach involves storing the collected eggs in damp peat for approximately three weeks. Subsequently, thoroughly saturating the peat with water induces the hatching of the fry. Opting for this peat method ensures a uniform and synchronised hatch, with all eggs typically hatching within 24 to 48 hours.
If the water method is chosen, closely monitoring the development of the embryos and the subsequent hatching becomes feasible. This technique offers the advantage of facilitating the removal of any infertile or fungus eggs, ensuring a higher rate of viable fry production. However, it is important to note that the process of collecting the eggs can be time-consuming and meticulous.
In the case of the peat method, you should place a small quantity of peat or peat fibre at the bottom of the tank. The peat can be harvested after approximately one to two weeks, unveiling a batch of well-fed breeders yielding anywhere from 40 to 60 fry. To expedite their development, the initial feedings for the fry should consist of baby brine shrimp or microworms.
By following these breeding techniques, aquarists can enhance the success rate and progression of the Poliak's Killifish fry, embarking on a gratifying journey in nurturing the next generation of these captivating fish.
Diet & Feeding
The dietary preferences of Poliak's Killifish are primarily centred around carnivorous consumption. This species demonstrates a particular inclination towards small live and frozen food sources, including brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and insect larvae. Ensuring a well-rounded nutritional intake, supplementing their diet with premium-grade dry foods specifically designed for small fish can effectively furnish the essential nutrients required for their optimal health and well-being.
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