Neolebias Unifasciatus

Neolebias unifasciatus is a small, active micro-characin from West and Central Africa, inhabiting shallow forest streams and flooded vegetation with soft, slightly acidic water. Its most distinctive feature is the bold dark lateral stripe running from the snout to the caudal peduncle, complemented by orange-red colouration in the tail fin on conditioned specimens.

In the aquarium, this species does best in groups of ten or more in a well-planted nano tank with low to moderate flow. It appreciates the security of dense vegetation and some floating cover, which encourages natural behaviour and bold colouration. Water chemistry should lean soft and acidic, with the addition of leaf litter or peat to replicate its forest-stream origins.

Neolebias unifasciatus is an adaptable feeder that readily accepts micro-pellets, fine flake, and small live or frozen foods. Its undemanding nature and peaceful disposition make it a rewarding choice for aquarists exploring African nano fish beyond the more commonly kept species.

Water: Soft and slightly acidic, pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 23–27°C, GH 1–8, KH 0–4. Tank: Minimum 40 L, densely planted with leaf litter; low flow and dim lighting preferred. Feeding: Omnivore; micro-pellets, fine flake, baby brine shrimp, and micro-worm. Breeding: Egg scatterer among fine-leaved plants; requires very soft water; fry need infusoria initially. Compatibility: Peaceful; compatible with other nano African fish, small rasboras, and dwarf shrimp.