Electric blue scattered with red spots and fins rimmed in yellow, on a fish the length of a thumb. The killifish most often recommended to someone who has never kept one.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Skin conditions
- Parasites
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- 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 experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment2โ3 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Skin conditions
๐ Care guide
Gardner's or the Steel-Blue Killifish (Fundulopanchax gardneri) comes from small streams, swamps and seasonal pools in Nigeria and Cameroon and reaches about 5 to 6 cm. Several distinct regional colour forms are traded, usually labelled by collection point such as Nsukka or Makurdi. Unlike the true annual killifish it is not tied to a single wet season and lives a comparatively normal two to three years. A pair or a trio of one male and two females suits a planted tank of 40 litres or more at 20-26C with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and soft to medium water, gentle flow, dark substrate and floating plants. A tight lid is essential, since killifish are exceptional jumpers and escape through the smallest gap. Feed frozen and live foods as the staple, including bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp and blackworm, with pellets accepted by most individuals. Males spar with each other, so keep one male per small tank, and note that it will eat fry and very small tankmates.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Gardner's Killifish?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Gardner's Killifish need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Gardner's Killifish need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Gardner's Killifish a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Gardner's Killifish live?
2โ3 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Gardner's Killifish?
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.
Similar breeds
Gardner's Killifish community
0 members
Be the first to join this community!
Community feed
Not sure this is the breed for you?
Answer 7 short questions and get ranked matches for your lifestyle.
Try the match quiz