A stunning, semi-annual killifish native to Nigeria and Cameroon. Known for being relatively hardy and an excellent 'beginner' killifish. They are notorious jumpers and require a tightly fitting lid. While they can be kept in community tanks with similarly sized, fast-moving fish, males can be boisterous and territorial.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male
Spectacularly colored with a metallic blue/green body, dense vivid red spots, and bright yellow/red fin margins. Males are fiercely territorial with each other and relentless in pursuing females. Best kept as 1 Male per tank, or in a large harem (1M to 2-3F).
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Male Gardneri, Show Male
Female
Noticeably drabber than males, featuring a pale brown/tan body with sparse brownish spotting and clear fins. Much more peaceful. Should ideally outnumber males to distribute breeding harassment.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Unsexed, Female Killifish
Gardner's Killifish Care Summary
The Gardner's Killifish, scientifically known as Fundulopanchax gardneri, belongs to the Killifish family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 6.5 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the surface and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Gardner's Killifish requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 20°C and 26°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 4–10 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include plants - densely covered, plants - floating, and plants - lighly covered.
Gardner's Killifish can be kept singly or in a group, making them flexible additions to most setups. Keepers should be aware that this species is not safe with ornamental shrimp and is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Clown Killifish
Epiplatys annulatus
A striking nano killifish resembling a tiny rocket. Native to West African swamps, they have distinct black and yellow vertical bands. They are strictly surface dwellers (top-level) and are non-annual, meaning they live longer than annual killifish (2-3+ years). They are notorious jumpers and require a tight lid.
Florida Flagfish
Jordanella floridae
A robust, deep-bodied killifish native to Florida. Unlike most killifish, they are primarily herbivores and are renowned for their ability to eat Hair Algae and sometimes Black Beard Algae. They are sub-tropical and thrive in unheated aquariums. They can be fin-nippers, especially if underfed or kept with long-finned tank mates.
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Heterandria formosa
Despite its common name, the Least Killifish is actually one of the smallest livebearing fish in the world, belonging to the Poeciliidae family, not the killifish family. Native to the southeastern United States, they are incredibly peaceful and perfect for nano tanks. Unlike most livebearers, they exhibit 'superfoetation', meaning females drop 1-2 fry every few days rather than a large single brood.
Golden Wonder Killifish
Aplocheilus lineatus
A large, incredibly hardy, surface-dwelling killifish. The 'Golden Wonder' is a selectively bred bright yellow morph of the wild Striped Panchax. They are notorious predators with surprisingly large, trapdoor-like mouths; they will easily consume neon tetras, guppies, and dwarf shrimp. They are completely peaceful with fish too large to eat, but require a tight-fitting lid as they are expert jumpers.
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
A peaceful to semi-aggressive labyrinth fish native to South Asia. Famous for their brilliant metallic blue and red stripes. While generally suitable for community tanks, males are territorial toward each other and similar-looking fish. They are sensitive to water quality and prone to Iridovirus if stressed. Requires access to the surface to breathe.
Empire Gudgeon
Hypseleotris compressa
A remarkably adaptable and beautifully colored sleeper goby (not a true goby) native to Australia and New Guinea. They inhabit both pure freshwater streams and brackish estuaries. While generally peaceful and excellent community fish, they are micropredators that will happily consume dwarf shrimp and very small fry.