Pale yellow-green with a luminous blue ring around each eye and yellow-tipped forked fins that flare constantly. The males duel all day, entirely for show.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Skin conditions
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- ExerciseHigh
A busy, energetic swimmer โ keep plenty of open swimming room.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceFor experienced owners
Rewards owners who know the ropes.
- Commitment2โ4 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Skin conditions
๐ Care guide
The Forktail Blue-Eye (Pseudomugil furcatus) comes from clear, fast-flowing forest streams in eastern Papua New Guinea and reaches about 4 to 5 cm. Its common name comes from the deeply forked tail, and the vivid blue iris that all Pseudomugil share. Males display to one another almost continuously, spreading their yellow-edged fins in mock combat. Keep a group of at least eight in a planted tank of 60 litres or more at 23-28C with a pH of 7.0 to 8.0 and medium to hard water with decent flow and oxygenation, matching its stream origins. A tight lid is needed. Feed small foods: fine flake, crushed micro-pellets, live and frozen baby brine, daphnia and cyclops, several times a day since it has a fast metabolism and a small stomach. It is peaceful and safe with shrimp, but short-lived at two to four years, which is normal for the genus rather than a sign of poor care, and worth knowing before buying.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Forktail Blue-Eye?
High. A busy, energetic swimmer โ keep plenty of open swimming room.
How much maintenance does a Forktail Blue-Eye need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Forktail Blue-Eye need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Forktail Blue-Eye a good fit for first-time owners?
For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.
How long do Forktail Blue-Eye live?
2โ4 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Forktail Blue-Eye?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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