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.







