Humpbacked Limia - Limia nigrofasciata : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Humpbacked Limia (Limia nigrofasciata) is a stunning and active fish that thrives in planted community aquariums. This species is peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive fish species; however, caution should be exercised as they have been known to prey on Dwarf Shrimp and may nip at the fins of other Livebearers.
The Humpbacked Limia is best kept in groups, and males can be territorial towards one another, so it is important to ensure that there are enough females present to disperse their attention. They prefer neutral to hard water conditions and may struggle in soft water environments. This fish may not be the best choice for beginners, as they are sensitive to even the slightest presence of ammonia in the water and require careful monitoring.
The body of the Humpbacked Limia is a striking blue-grey colour, featuring black vertical stripes and bright yellow colouration on its throat and fins. As the males mature, they develop a hump, and their dorsal fin enlarges, adding to their unique appearance. Despite these changes, they remain a captivating and dynamic species that will add vibrancy to any aquarium.
Humpbacked Limia Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
It is simple to differentiate male from female Humpbacked Limias. Males display more vivid colouration and exhibit a modified anal fin, as well as a signature gonopodium. Additionally, they develop the characteristic hump, which sets them apart from their female counterparts. In comparison, females are more substantial and have a more subdued appearance.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Limia nigrofasciata |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1913 |
| Other Names | Black-barred Limia |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Family | Poeciliidae |
| Genus | Limia |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Top |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | 3 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Livebearer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 3 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 10 - 25 |
| ℉ | 72 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The Humpbacked Limia is a captivating fish that is indigenous to the lush waters of Haiti and the Dominican Republic in North America. It is usually found in shallow waters such as streams, rivers, and lagoons that are heavily populated with aquatic vegetation. They are known for their social behaviour and are often found swimming in large shoals, creating a beautiful spectacle to behold.
Interestingly, you can also find the Humpbacked Limia thriving in brackish water conditions, which adds to its adaptability and versatility. These fish have a natural inclination towards lush and verdant habitats, so incorporating plenty of aquatic plants into their tank is highly recommended to keep them happy and healthy.
Breeding
Breeding the Humpbacked Limia is a relatively simple task, as long as you avoid keeping them in soft, acidic water. These fish reproduce in the typical Livebearer fashion, with males relentlessly pursuing females. To mitigate this, it is advisable to maintain several females for each male and provide thickly planted areas for the females to take refuge. Gestation lasts between 6 to 8 weeks, and females can produce broods of up to 50 fry, depending on their size and health.
Adult fish will prey on the young, so to increase the survival rate of the fry, gravid females should be moved to a separate tank to give birth before being reintroduced to the main aquarium. Newborn fry is relatively large and can consume powdered flake food or brine shrimp nauplii straight away. With ample food, they will grow quickly and can reach adult size in less than six months. Interestingly, temperature may play a role in determining the sex of the offspring. Higher water temperatures tend to result in more female fish being produced.
Diet & Feeding
The feeding habits of Humpbacked Limias are not particularly demanding, as these fish are not fussy eaters and will readily accept a variety of food sources. To ensure their nutritional requirements are met, it is advisable to provide a well-balanced diet of high-quality dried and frozen foods, along with a selection of fresh or flake vegetables. By doing so, you can help promote their optimal health and overall well-being.
