Volcano Killifish | Aphyosemion volcanum




Killifish / Aplocheilinae / Volcano Killifish

Profile: Volcano Killifish
Aphyosemion volcanum Synonyms: None
Physical description:  A long-bodied fish.  Males have elaborate anal and dorsal fins which are tall and pointed.   The body color of males range depending on the population.  Commonly, the back is violet-brown, while the flanks are bright yellow or gold.  The body may be marked with red spots as may be the fins.   The rear body parts often have a violet iridescence.  The anal fin is yellow to green with a bright yellow tip.   The caudal fin is red and green and has bright yellow tips.  The anal and pectoral fins are yellow with red edges.  
Size/Length: To 2" (5 cm)
Similar species: Other fish of the sub-genus Chromaphyosemion.
Habitat: West Africa; inhabits the ponds and streams around Mt. Cameroon near the western coast of Cameroon.
S: All
Aquarium: A tank measuring 20" (51 cm) with a capacity of 10 gallons (38 L) is sufficient.   Use a dark substrate with subdued lighting.  Plant the tank heavily and provide hiding places among roots and wood.  
Water chemistry: pH 5.5-7 (6.3), 1-10 dH (2), 77-81°F (25-27°C)
Social behavior: Males are aggressive towards one another, otherwise this species is peaceful.  
Suggested companions: Aphyosemion , Danios, hatchetfish, pencilfish, Corydoras, Loricarids Trichopsis, Pangio, Puntius titteya, small African characins, and some Mormyrids.
FOOD: Live; flying insects, insect larvae, Brine Shrimp, other crustaceans, Tubifex worms; flakes.
Sexual differences: Males have longer fins and are more colorful.
Breeding techniques: Use a spawning tank heavy infested with Java Moss and a substrate of peat moss.   The moss should be removed weekly and stored in a plastic bag in a dark area with a temperature from 64-75°F (18-24°C).   After two or three weeks the eggs can be placed in their own tank having soft water.   Start feeding with Artemia nauplii.   The eggs may have a better hatching rate if cooler water is used a first.
Breeding potential: 6.  Breeding is fairly easy.
Remarks: Several different color morphs are known including those from Meme and Bolifumba.   Perform frequent partial water changes. 
Difficulty of care: 5.  This Killifish is somewhat sensitive to water conditions.