Description and Origin
Aphyosemion caudofasciatum was first described by Huber & Radda in 1979. In nature, this species inhabits exclusively the streams of the Zanaga region in the upper Ogoué River basin in southern Congo. These fish populate forest-covered streams, preferring shaded areas with slow current.
Aphyosemion caudofasciatum reaches a length of up to 5 centimeters. The predominant coloration is brown with a darker back and lighter abdomen. In reflected light, the sides display a bluish cast. The main distinguishing feature of this species is a vertical black stripe on the caudal fin—a unique characteristic among all aphyosemions. Closer to the tail, several narrow vertical red stripes add to the striking appearance.
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Tank volume | From 20 liters per pair |
| Temperature | 18-22°C |
| pH | 5.8-7.2 |
| Hardness (dH) | 2-10° |
| Fish size | Up to 5 cm |
| Lifespan | 2-3 years |
Aquarium Maintenance
For keeping a pair of Aphyosemion caudofasciatum, a freshwater aquarium of approximately twenty liters is sufficient. Water should maintain a temperature of 18-22°C with pH ranging from 5.8 to 7.2. In my experience, cooler water in the lower part of this range promotes greater activity and extends the fish’s lifespan.
I recommend lining the aquarium bottom with peat—this creates a natural environment and maintains proper acidity. The landscape can be decorated with several large stones and driftwood. Regarding plants, Java moss, floating ceratopteris bushes, and microsorum work well. You can also use elodea, vallisneria, or Myriophyllum aquaticum. Dense thickets aren’t necessary, but fish need hiding spots where they can retreat when needed.
Aphyosemion caudofasciatum is not a seasonal killifish, which simplifies its maintenance compared to species from desiccating water bodies. The fish appreciates gentle water movement—installing an air stone from an aquarium compressor is sufficient to create the necessary current. Approximately every two months, change half the water for fresh, dechlorinated water of the same temperature and acidity.
An important species characteristic is extremely slow growth, which requires patience when raising juveniles.
Feeding
You can feed Aphyosemion caudofasciatum with any type of live food. I recommend observing which foods your fish prefer most. Small bloodworms, chopped tubifex, cyclops, and daphnia work excellently. Finely chopped earthworms are also suitable. If absolutely necessary, you can attempt to accustom them to dry or frozen foods, though live food remains preferable.
Breeding
For spawning, select individuals at least 8 months old—by this age they reach sexual maturity. A well-matched pair in suitable conditions usually begins spawning willingly. Suitable conditions include water 1-2 degrees warmer than usual in a spawning tank of about 10 liters, which should be slightly shaded and placed in a quiet location.
The spawning tank bottom must be lined with peat. Under optimal conditions, breeders begin laying eggs on vertical surfaces several centimeters from the bottom—this may be the aquarium glass or a smooth stone surface. The female lays about a dozen eggs daily; unfortunately, approximately half perish within the first day.
To reduce egg loss, I recommend collecting eggs each evening and placing them in a separate container with disinfected water of the same composition as the spawning tank. Active spawning lasts about three days, followed by a calm period of several days during which the female may lay only a few eggs. After this, spawning intensity increases again for a few days, and the cycle continues. Throughout the entire spawning period, the female can lay approximately 200 eggs.
Unlike seasonal killifish species from desiccating habitats, eggs do not require a diapause period for development. After fry appear, feed them infusoria for the first few days, then transition to cyclops or Artemia nauplii. Similar to other species like Cichlasoma Sedgica or gudgeon, obtaining and raising Aphyosemion caudofasciatum offspring requires patience and attention to detail. If you achieve positive results, I encourage you to share your experiences with fellow aquarists.
Article updated: 2026-07-15
