Lefini Killifish

Aphyosemion lefiniense is a rare non-annual killifish from the Lefini River drainage of the Republic of Congo. Males display vivid blue-green iridescent body colouration with orange-red flecking across the flanks and richly coloured fins. The species is known from very few records in the wild and is seldom encountered in the hobby, making captive-bred specimens through killifish society exchanges the primary source.

Care requirements are demanding: very soft, acidic water with minimal hardness is essential. A 40 L species tank with peat filtration and dim lighting provides the most suitable environment. Spawning occurs on fine-leaved plants or a yarn mop, and eggs hatch after two to three weeks in damp peat. Regular water changes with very soft water are critical.

A. lefiniense is strictly an advanced killifish keeper's fish — its water quality sensitivity and rarity in the hobby require careful management. The reward is the privilege of maintaining one of the least commonly kept Aphyosemion in captivity.

Water: 22–26 °C, pH 5.5–6.5, very soft water (GH 1–4) essential; use RO or rainwater. Tank: 40 L species tank; peat filtration; cover with floating plants. Feeding: Live micro worms, Artemia nauplii, and small Daphnia; feed sparingly daily. Breeding: Remove mop weekly; incubate eggs in damp peat for 2–3 weeks. Compatibility: Species tank only; this species is too rare and sensitive for community setups.