Scientific name: Fundulopanchax gardneri gardneri

Common name: Blue lyretail

Family: Nothobranchiidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 6 cm (1.97 - 2.36 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 19°N (107.14 - 339.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Blue lyretail will accept all live foods like white worms, brine shrimp, and tubifex. Also feed with a quality flake.

Origin

Africa; Blue lyretail is found in the tributaries and marshes of Nigeria and Cameroon.

Sexing

The male will be more brightly colored than the female with red spots running through his body. The tips of the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins will be tinged with yellow. Females tend to be duller in coloration with brown spots running through the body.

Breeding

Add a 2-3 inch layer of peat to the bottom of the breeding tank; the fish will then bury their eggs in the substrate. When spawning is complete, remove the peat with the eggs and squeeze out some of the water. The peat is then stored in a plastic bag for 3 weeks at room temperature. Add water after this time to induce the hatching and the fry can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Fundulopanchax gardneri gardneri is 2-3 years.

Short description

The Blue Lyre tail can adapt to different water conditions but does prefer softer water. They do require a planted tank.