Add a splash of iridescent blue and vibrant energy to your tank with the Blue Steel Killifish (Fundulopanchax gardneri), one of the most popular and resilient killifish species for freshwater aquariums. Also known as the Gardneri Killifish, Steel Blue Killifish, Blue Lyretail, Blue Lyretail Killifish, or Gardner’s Killifish, this species is celebrated for its brilliant coloration, flowing lyretail, and hardy nature, making it a top choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. Fundulopanchax gardneri is native to the slow-moving streams and pools of Nigeria and Cameroon, where it inhabits densely vegetated, shaded waters. The steel blue killifish boasts an iridescent blue body adorned with red or orange spots and, in males, a dramatic lyre-shaped tail and dorsal fins. Females are more subtly colored, with a graceful, streamlined look. These small, active fish thrive in well-planted community tanks and biotope setups. Adult blue killifish typically reach 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm) in length. Males exhibit the most vibrant colors and signature blue lyretails, making them stand out in any aquarium. Their dazzling, metallic sheen and elegant fin extensions earn them the common names “blue lyretail” and “blue lyretail killifish.” Blue steel killifish are peaceful and lively, making them excellent candidates for community tanks with other small, gentle fish. They do best in groups with at least one male and several females to display their natural courtship and social behaviors. Suitable tank mates include Tetras, Rasboras, small Gouramis, Corydoras, and peaceful Livebearers. Provide plenty of aquarium plants, floating vegetation, and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. At our Splashy Fish tropical fish store, our Steel Blue Killifish for sale and other freshwater fish for sale are carefully selected and packed with love! Visit us to buy them online or at our aquarium store in Virginia for more betta fish for sale, freshwater shrimp for sale, live aquatic plants for sale, and aquarium supplies. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM THIS FISH: Brilliant metallic blue body with striking red/orange spots Males feature long, elegant lyretail fins, true “blue lyretail killifish” Hardy, adaptable, and ideal for planted or biotope tanks Peaceful and compatible with other small, gentle fish Fascinating spawning and courtship displays RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS: Tank Size: Minimum 15 gallons for a group (more space preferred for pairs/trios) Temperature: 72°–77°F (22°–25°C) pH: 6.0–7.5 Hardness: 4–12 dGH Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow; keep water clean and well-oxygenated CARE GUIDELINES: Diet: Omnivorous. Provide a varied diet of high-quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen or live foods (such as brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae) to enhance color and vitality. Aquascaping: Use dense planting, floating plants, and soft, dark substrate to replicate their native environment. Add spawning mops or fine-leafed plants for breeding. Maintenance: Regular water changes and stable water parameters are crucial for health and breeding success. Breeding: Gardner’s killifish are egg-layers and relatively easy to breed in captivity. Eggs are laid among plants or mops and hatch in 2–3 weeks, depending on temperature. Visit here to explore more about How to Care for Killifish.
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