(C3) Golden Wonder Killifish (Aplocheilus lineatus)

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Description

Description

Golden Wonder Killifish (Aplocheilus lineatus)

📌 Basic Info

  • Scientific Name: Aplocheilus lineatus

  • Common Names: Golden Wonder Killifish, Striped Panchax, Golden Panchax

  • Family: Aplocheilidae (Killifish Family)

  • Order: Cyprinodontiformes

  • Origin: South and Southeast Asia — mainly India and Sri Lanka freshwater streams and ponds

  • Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm) in captivity

  • Lifespan: 3 – 5 years

  • Tank Zone: Mid to upper water column

🌊 Water Parameters

  • TDS: 100 – 250 ppm

  • pH: 6.5 – 7.5

  • Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

  • Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

  • Body: Elongated, slender body with smooth, reflective scales.

  • Coloration: Golden to yellowish body with subtle horizontal stripes; males display more vibrant hues.

  • Fins: Dorsal and anal fins elongated; caudal fin slightly forked; pectoral fins translucent.

  • Behavior: Semi-aggressive; active predator; fast swimmer.

  • Nature: Diurnal; hunts small live foods in mid-water; prefers planted and shaded areas.

  • Special Feature: Hardy and resilient; known for predatory instincts and unique golden coloration.

🍽️ Food

  • Type: Carnivorous

  • Diet: Live foods such as mosquito larvae, brine shrimp, daphnia, and small insects; high-quality frozen or micro-pellets.

  • Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily.

  • Tip: Live foods enhance coloration and encourage active hunting behavior.

🛠️ Maintenance

  • Tank Size: Minimum 80 liters (20 gallons) for a single adult.

  • Filtration: Moderate filtration; gentle to moderate water flow.

  • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel; avoid sharp decorations.

  • Decor: Plants, driftwood, and floating vegetation; provides hiding and hunting areas.

  • Lighting: Moderate; mimics natural habitat and enhances golden tones.

  • Water Change: 20–25% weekly; maintain clean and stable water.

👥 Social Behavior

  • Group Size: Best kept singly or in a pair; males can be territorial.

  • Tank Mates: Suitable with fast, larger, non-aggressive fish; avoid small fish that may be eaten.

  • Avoid: Tiny fish or very passive species; may be seen as prey.

  • Compatibility Note: Predatory instincts make them unsuitable for nano or heavily stocked community tanks.

Do’s

  • Keep in a tank with plenty of swimming space.

  • Provide live foods to encourage hunting and color.

  • Include plants and shaded areas for security.

  • Maintain stable water parameters.

Don’ts

  • Don’t keep with small fish; they may be eaten.

  • Don’t overcrowd; requires open swimming space.

  • Don’t neglect water quality; sensitive to ammonia/nitrite spikes.

Quick Tips
Golden Wonder Killifish are active, predatory, and visually striking freshwater fish. Their shimmering golden body, hunting instincts, and hardy nature make them a fascinating centerpiece for larger community or species-specific tanks.