Bluefin Killifish

Lucania goodei is a small and brilliantly coloured killifish endemic to Florida, inhabiting spring runs, coastal plain streams, and slow blackwater ditches and marshes. Males are exceptional in their fin colouration: the dorsal fin displays red-orange at the base transitioning to electric blue at the tip, the anal fin is vivid orange-red, and the caudal fin is edged in orange — all set against a pale translucent olive-green body. The contrast is most vivid in well-lit, plant-rich aquaria.

In the aquarium, Bluefin Killifish are straightforward to maintain, tolerating a range of water conditions from soft blackwater to moderately hard Florida spring chemistry. They are surface-oriented but will range through mid-water, and they appreciate floating plants and emergent vegetation for cover and spawning sites. Males display constantly to one another and to females, making them actively entertaining.

They are one of the most beginner-friendly of the North American killifish and are highly recommended as a starter species for native fish aquarists interested in surface-dwelling Fundulidae.

Water: 18–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; gentle flow, Florida spring conditions optimal. Tank: 40 L minimum; floating plants, emergent vegetation, planted edges; tightly fitted lid. Feeding: Live/frozen Daphnia, Artemia, small insects; accepts micro-pellets and floating flake. Breeding: Deposits adhesive eggs on plant roots and fine-leaved plants; easy to breed in captivity. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive males; excellent community fish with other small peaceful Florida natives.