Cameroon Killifish

Aphyosemion cameronense is a slender non-annual killifish from forest streams in Cameroon, inhabiting slow-moving, shaded watercourses with soft, acidic water. Males display a subtle but attractive greenish-yellow body colouration overlaid with scattered red spotting, while the fins are edged with red and white. Females are plainer but still carry a hint of the red spotting.

This species does best in a 40 L species tank or quiet community setup with very soft, slightly acidic water. It is somewhat more sensitive to water quality than the most beginner-friendly killifish but is well within the reach of intermediate keepers. Eggs are placed on a spawning mop and incubated in damp peat for two to three weeks before hatching.

A. cameronense offers a more understated beauty than many Aphyosemion, appealing to keepers who appreciate the subtleties of the genus. It is occasionally available from specialist killifish suppliers and provides a window into the remarkable diversity of West African killifish.

Water: 20–24 °C, pH 5.5–7.0, very soft water (GH 1–8) strongly preferred. Tank: 40 L species or quiet community tank with abundant plants and hiding spots. Feeding: Live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia, micro worms; feed small amounts daily. Breeding: Collect eggs from spawning mop; incubate in damp peat 2–3 weeks. Compatibility: Peaceful with very small, calm community species; avoid active or large fish.