Calliurum Killifish

Aphyosemion calliurum is a gorgeous non-annual killifish from forest streams in Nigeria and Cameroon. Males display vivid red spotting densely covering a blue-green iridescent body, and fully mature males develop dramatically extended lyretail caudal fin filaments that make them one of the most spectacular Aphyosemion species. Females, while plainer, are attractively patterned.

This species prefers soft, slightly acidic water and a well-planted 40 L aquarium with a spawning mop for egg collection. It is peaceful toward non-killifish tankmates of a similar size. Eggs are collected from the mop and incubated on damp peat for two to four weeks. The species is moderately prolific and relatively easy to breed once stable water conditions are established.

A. calliurum is a firm favourite among Aphyosemion enthusiasts for its exceptional visual appeal. Its combination of vivid colouration and flowing lyretail extensions rival many of the more celebrated species in the genus, yet its care requirements remain well within reach for intermediate killifish keepers.

Water: 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.0, soft water (GH 2–8) essential for best colouration. Tank: 40 L species or peaceful community tank with plants and a spawning mop. Feeding: Live Artemia, Daphnia, frozen bloodworm, and micro-pellets; feed daily. Breeding: Collect spawning mop weekly; incubate eggs in damp peat for 2–4 weeks. Compatibility: Peaceful with small tetras or rasboras; avoid fin-nippers.