Killifish are hardy freshwater fish that belong to the Order Cyprinodontiformes egg-laying genus.
These creatures are familiar in various regions such as the Americas, Africa, southern Europe, the Middle East, and even Asia.
They’re one among the brightest-colored and most intricately patterned aquatic species. So, killifish hobbyists are among the most numerous communities of fish-keeping aficionados.
If you join this community, it’s best to learn everything related to this species, including Killifish tank size.
Let’s scroll down this article to understand these fish deeply!
Contents
Killifish Tank Size And Setup Recommendations
Killifish are among the most gorgeous fish found in the world. They’re an excellent choice for novice and experienced fish owners alike.
If you want to keep some, below are the tank size and setup recommendations to follow.
Tank Size
- Tank size
You can keep these fish in tiny desktop aquariums due to their modest size.
A 5 or 10-gallon aquarium is generally plenty for keeping 3 to 4 of these bright fish.
For most group setups or maintaining over one male in one tank, a giant 20-gallon aquarium is ideal.
This aquarium is ideal for the schooling of these fish because it can accommodate between 8 and 12 fish.
- Tank shape
Shallow, rectangular, and long are the best tank shapes.
Tank Setup
- Water Parameters
- Water Temperature
Killifish prefer water temperatures from 72 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
A conventional heater can assist in maintaining a comfortable temperature.
- pH Level
These creatures require a pH range of 6.6 to 7.2 in their water.
The pH of the water may differ based on the place you bought these fish. Keep a pH level of 7.
- Water Hardness
Water with a hardness of 122 to 162 parts per million (ppm) will be excellent.
In a tiny tank, a primary box filter will suffice. A bigger tank needs a large filter.
For a Killifish aquarium, a sponge filter is the best option.
Otherwise, a low-powered filter system can be helpful to keep the tank water and circulation flowing efficiently.
- Tank Landscape
- Plants
You can add a variety of plants to your Killifish aquarium when you raise them.
Some of them may be:
- Java fern
- African water fern
- Java moss
- Indian fern
- Anubias
- Najas
- Hornwort
- Marsilea Hirsuta
Avoid plants that may completely cover the surface of the tank water.
- Decorations
For the tank decor, you can strive to include anything that gives overhand, such as overhanging branches. It might bring a wild, natural vibe and aesthetics.
- Substrate
Dark substrates and floating plants, such as gravel and sands can be used to create a natural landscape.
- Lighting
Killifish loves to live in dimly lit environments.
Killifish Care Guides
Killies are a relatively low-maintenance fish. They will require a variety of food as well as steady water conditions.
This species doesn’t need any special maintenance requirements to live happily and healthily.
1. Diet
These creatures are carnivorous that can consume live foods such as crustaceans, insect larvae, worms, and crickets.
They prefer eating live foods to dried or frozen foods. Thus, if you can’t prepare live foods for them, it’s not the best time to raise them.
Remember to keep the fish’s diet balanced while giving it food. It’s essential when it comes to breeding.
Fish that have their dietary demands addressed can reproduce successfully.
Keep in mind that various species have distinct nutritional preferences, so take note of their specific needs.
All of these creatures can benefit from the following recommendations:
- Water fleas
- Daphnia
- Brine shrimp
- Cyclops
- Fruit flies
- Freeze-dried micro invertebrates
- Tubifex Worms
- Blood worms
- Mosquito larvae
This species depends on a diversified diet, so don’t give them an excess of one thing at a time, or they’ll become malnourished or obese.
You should additionally ensure you’re feeding the right size food to your specific species.
Because they have fast metabolisms, you should feed them small feeds often during the day.
It’s best to feed annuals more regularly than non-annuals to sustain their development and breeding.
These creatures can be fed twice or three times each day. It is preferable to avoid big single meals to avoid any feeding problems.
Brine shrimp
2. Breeding
Breeding for these creatures depends on the species: annual or non-annual Killifish.
Annual Killifish are often simpler to breed in your home tank, but the procedure is time-consuming.
To begin with, you must first learn about your species’ unique requirements.
Some species require a coating of peat to deposit their spawns, while others require plant leaves or spawning mops.
Whatever substrate you choose, ensure your aquarium is correctly set up. You’ll have to partner up possible mating partners with one another.
Introduce only a single male and a large number of females in the same tank simultaneously.
The male pursues the female Killifish and creates a mating partnership ultimately.
It would be best to inspect the substrate every day for any spawns after a breeding pair has been formed.
Killifish will occasionally consume their eggs and little fish if they are not correctly cared for.
As a result, when you see any eggs, take them out from the aquarium using peat moss or spawning mops.
Killifish eggs usually hatch in around three months. You may refill the tank with water after the spawns hatch.
3. Tankmates
These fish are pretty peaceful, which means they can get on well with many other species.
Your Killifish may react positively with Neon Tetra, Rummy Nose Tetra, and Badis Badis.
Besides, there is a wide range of creatures suitable to live with Killifish as long they are gentle and calm, including:
- Celestial pearl danios
- Cardinal tetras
- Asian stone catfish
- Zebra danios
- Rosy tetras
- Yellow dwarf cichlid
- Agassiz’s dwarf cichlid
- Cockatoo dwarf cichlid
- Harlequin rasbora
- Blackline rasbora
- Honey gourami
If you want more suggestions, you can watch this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIAgo2MBc9w
Wrapping Up
Killifish are famous among aquarium owners since they are mostly calm. They stand out because of their vibrant coloration.
Moreover, the Killifish tank size and setup are simple, and even beginner fish owners can establish their aquarium for these ornamental fish.
They also don’t require a lot of maintenance. If you are a newbie aquarist, you can still keep them in your tank if you follow our guides.
Thanks for reading, and see you in the next post!
Alex is a pet freelance writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience. He attended Colorado State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, which was where he first got some experience in animal nutrition. After graduating from University, Alex began sharing his knowledge as a freelance writer specializing in pets.
