While we make every effort to ensure that our online stock levels are accurate and up to date, some products—particularly those that are perishable or subject to daily changes—may vary in availability. This includes livestock, fish, corals, and both fresh and frozen foods. Due to the nature of these items and their dependence on factors such as shipment schedules, health status, and in-store demand, availability can change rapidly and may not always be reflected in real time on our website.
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Our friendly team will be happy to assist and provide the most up-to-date information on current stock.
A living splash of paint in motion, the Gardner’s Killifish (Aphyosemion gardneri) is a stunning, peaceful nano fish prized for its vivid colours and fascinating behaviour. Males are especially eye-catching, flaunting electric blues, reds, and yellows across their elongated fins, while females are more modest but still lovely in their own right. Small in size but big in personality, these West African natives are ideal for planted aquariums and species setups.
Species: Aphyosemion gardneri
Common Names: Gardner’s Killifish, Steel-blue Killifish
Origin: West Africa – Nigeria and Cameroon, in slow-moving streams, ponds, and forest pools
Light Requirements: Low to moderate – enhances colour without stressing the fish
Diet: Carnivorous – enjoys live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, bloodworms, and high-quality micro pellets
Maximum Size: 5–6 cm
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Intermediate
Aquarium Setup:
Best kept in well-planted tanks of 20 litres or more, Gardner’s Killifish thrive in soft, slightly acidic water with leaf litter, mosses, and low light to mimic their natural habitat. A secure lid is essential—they’re notorious jumpers. They do well in species-only tanks or peaceful community setups with similarly small, non-aggressive fish. Gentle flow is preferred, and subdued lighting brings out their best colours.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 22–26°C
pH: 6.0–7.2
Hardness: 2–10 dGH
Growth and Maintenance:
Killifish are short-lived but fast-growing, with a typical lifespan of 2–3 years. They are prolific spawners, and breeding is possible in captivity using spawning mops or fine-leafed plants. While they can be a little shy at first, they become confident and interactive with time. Keep males with multiple females to reduce sparring.
Care Tips:
✔ Always use a tight-fitting lid – they jump when startled
✔ Keep in soft, slightly acidic water with minimal surface agitation
✔ Feed a protein-rich diet in small, frequent meals
✔ Use floating plants to diffuse light and provide cover
✔ Breeding? Provide spawning mops and separate fry for best survival
Compatibility:
Compatible with other peaceful nano species like rasboras, small tetras, Corydoras, and shrimp. Avoid fast or fin-nipping tankmates. Best housed in trios or small groups with one male to multiple females.
Availability:
Occasionally available in the Australian aquarium trade through specialty breeders and enthusiasts. Multiple colour morphs exist (gold, blue, and standard wild-type). Ask us about current availability or breeding stock options.
Disclaimer:
"Due to their jumping ability and short natural lifespan, careful tank setup and water stability are key. Colouration may vary slightly between morphs and lighting conditions."