Description
Gardneri Killifish (Fundulopanchax gardneri)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Fundulopanchax gardneri
Common Names: Gardneri Killifish, Gardneri Panchax, Blue Gardneri
Family: Nothobranchiidae (Killifish Family)
Order: Cyprinodontiformes
Origin: West Africa — mainly Nigeria, Cameroon, and surrounding freshwater streams and ponds
Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6–7 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 2 – 4 years (short-lived species)
Tank Zone: Mid to upper water column
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 50 – 150 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 22 – 26°C (72 – 79°F)
Hardness: 5 – 12 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Slender, elongated body with smooth scales.
Coloration: Brilliant metallic blue-green body with bright red or orange fins; males are more colorful than females.
Fins: Rounded dorsal and anal fins; slightly forked caudal fin.
Behavior: Peaceful but territorial during breeding; males display to females with flaring fins.
Nature: Diurnal; active swimmers; enjoys plants and hiding areas.
Special Feature: Egg-laying species; vibrant colors and intricate patterns make them popular among killifish enthusiasts.
🍽️ Food
Type: Carnivorous/Omnivorous
Diet: Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and small insects; high-quality micro-pellets.
Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily.
Tip: Live foods enhance coloration and encourage breeding behavior.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 40 liters (10 gallons) for a pair.
Filtration: Gentle filtration; avoid strong currents.
Substrate: Fine gravel or sand; spawning mops or peat moss recommended for breeding.
Decor: Plants, driftwood, and floating vegetation; dark substrate enhances colors.
Lighting: Moderate; avoids stress and enhances coloration.
Water Change: 20% weekly; maintain high water quality.
👥 Social Behavior
Group Size: Kept as a pair or harems (1 male with 2–3 females).
Tank Mates: Peaceful small fish like small rasboras or other killifish species.
Avoid: Aggressive or large fish that may eat eggs or fry.
Compatibility Note: Territorial during breeding; males may display aggression toward each other.
✅ Do’s
Keep a pair or a harem for breeding purposes.
Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots.
Feed live or frozen foods for best coloration.
Maintain stable, clean water conditions.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t house with aggressive species.
Don’t keep males together in small tanks (may fight).
Don’t neglect water changes; sensitive to poor water quality.
⭐ Quick Tips
Gardneri Killifish are vibrant, short-lived, and highly rewarding freshwater fish. Their dazzling colors, active behavior, and ease of breeding make them a favorite for enthusiasts who enjoy small, beautifully colored mid-water fish in planted aquariums.
