Red Striped Killifish Male

Description

The Red Striped Killifish (Aphyosemion striatum) is a stunning freshwater species native to the small streams, swamps, and rainforest pools of West Africa, particularly in Gabon and the Republic of Congo. This fish is admired for its vibrant red horizontal stripes running along its iridescent blue-green body, creating a striking contrast that makes it a favorite among killifish enthusiasts.
In the wild, Red Striped Killifish inhabit shallow, slow-moving waters with dense vegetation and soft, acidic conditions. They are micro-predators, feeding on insect larvae, small crustaceans, and other tiny aquatic organisms.
In aquariums, the Red Striped Killifish thrives in a well-planted tank with soft substrate, floating plants, and gentle filtration to mimic its natural habitat. They are peaceful but prefer to be kept in pairs or small groups, making them suitable for species-only setups or carefully selected community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish like rasboras and pygmy Corydoras.
Growing to about 5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches), the Red Striped Killifish is an ideal species for small to medium aquariums. Its bold striping, peaceful temperament, and fascinating surface-feeding behavior make it a captivating choice for aquarists who enjoy colorful nano fish in planted environments.